Electronic identification apparatus

ABSTRACT

An electronic identification apparatus having data storage memory on board a removable transceiver device. The transceiver device also includes a processor and a transponder for receiving information pertaining to the object/person to which it is attached and storing the information in memory. The transceiver also transmits stored data to a control computer or the external devices. The transceiver is mounted on a base, such as a wristband, and the apparatus includes an attachment sensor indicating whether the transceiver is attached to the base. If the transceiver has been removed from the base, the processor performs one or more lockdown operations to prevent the stored data from being used in connection with another object or person. The lockdown operations include clearing the contents of the memory, disabling access to the memory, suppressing the display of stored data and activating an alarm.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/200,881 filed on Nov. 30, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,255,951and entitled “Electronic Identification Bracelet” which is acontinuation in part of Ser. No. 09/007,290 U.S. Pat. No. 5,883,576filed on Jan. 14, 1998 and entitled “Identification Bracelet WithElectronic Information” and is also a continuation in part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/185,137 filed on Nov. 3, 1998, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,259,654, and entitled “Multi-Vile Medication Organizer andDispenser” which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 08/832,613 filed on Mar. 28, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,852,590,and entitled “Interactive Label for Medication Containers andDispensers” which was originally filed as a provisional U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 60/033,491 on Dec. 20, 1996.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to identification bracelets and moreparticularly to a disposable bracelet having an embedded electronicmemory and a reusable transceiver which is releasably attachable to thebracelet for receiving data from a remote source to be stored in thememory and transmitting data stored in the memory to a remote receiver.

Throughout time accurate patient identification has been a paramountconcern in administering medication to, and performing medicalprocedures on, a patient. Years ago patient identification wasrelatively simple as local doctors would provide all types of medicalcare for essentially every person within a small community and knew eachpatient personally.

However, in today's medical environment, patient identification is amuch more arduous task for many reasons. First, literally hundreds ofpatients are examined and treated on a daily basis in large modernmedical facilities, each doctor or nurse interacting with as many astwenty or more patients within a single day. With such high trafficunaided positive patient identification is nearly impossible for anydoctor or nurse.

Second, many medical facilities are expansive including specializeddepartments which are spread out throughout the facility, manydepartments being on different floors or even in different buildings.For example, diagnostic examination, imaging, surgery, recovery, etc.,areas are all usually separate and staffed by different personnel. As apatient is moved from one department to another, even if personnelwithin one department can visually identify a patient, personnel inanother department may not be able to identify the patient.

Third, many patients are admitted into a medical facility for a periodwhich is longer than a single shift. Where facility personnel changesduring a patient's stay, unaided patient identification would be nearlyimpossible.

Fourth, in many cases medical personnel cannot rely on a patient forcorrect identification. Some patients might be experiencing severetrauma, be under the influence of medication or be asleep, therebymaking positive identification verification impossible.

For years the standard for patient identification has been to place anidentification bracelet on each patient's wrist. One bracelet includes aclear plastic sleeve having first and second ends and a paper strip.Information including a patient's name, an identification number andperhaps primary appearance characteristics (e.g. eye color, hair color,height, weight, etc.), are printed on a viewing surface of the strip.The strip is inserted in the sleeve with the viewing surface observablethrough the sleeve. The two ends of the sleeve are integrally joinedusing a mechanical fastener thereby forming a ring around the patient'swrist. These bracelets are designed to be removed only by cutting sothat once a bracelet is placed on a patient, the bracelet cannotmistakenly be placed on another patient. In addition, these braceletsare inexpensive enough that they are disposable.

While these bracelets are helpful, often it is difficult to readinformation from the paper strips within the sleeves as the sleevesoften hinder viewing, the paper strips slide inside the sleeve and caneven become folded or crimped within the sleeve.

Recently, new plastic materials and new printing methods have beendeveloped which enable printing directly on plastic surfaces. Inaddition, new adhesives have been developed which are used to fastenbracelet ends together. This new technology has facilitated single piecebracelets wherein identification material is printed directly on aviewing surface of a plastic strap and the strap is secured around apatient's wrist using an adhesive.

A patient's bracelet is used by all medical facility personnel toidentify a patient. Prior to administering a medication a nurse ordoctor reads the patient's name from the bracelet and compares thepatient's name with the name of the patient for whom the medication wasdispensed. The patient's name is usually printed either on a medicationorder or on a paper enclosed with the medication in a container or bag.

In addition, prior to performing any medical or diagnostic procedure,facility personnel also use the bracelet to identify a patient. Forexample, a person recording an electrocardiogram (EKG) to be sent to acomputerized storage system will often be instructed to provide, via akeyboard, a patient's name and identification number from the bracelet.Both the name and number are often requested as a misspelling of thename is a fairly common mistake and the identification number providesredundant identification.

For the purpose of this explanation, printed plastic bracelets will bedescribed as printed bracelets. While printed bracelets have improvedidentification, printed bracelets have a number of importantshortcomings. First, only a small amount of information can be printedon a bracelet. In this regard, unless a person viewing identificationinformation has a medical history file in his/her possession, the personcannot identify immediate medical status of a patient (e.g. medicationto be administered, time to administer medication, recent medicalprocedures, symptoms, etc.).

Second, information on a plastic bracelet cannot automatically betransferred to electronic instrumentation such as an EKG machine, animaging machine, etc. where a medical instrument requires patientinformation, the information must be manually provided by facilitypersonnel.

Third, each time a patient must be identified, the doctor, nurse ororderly identifying the patient must pick up the patient's wrist androtate the wrist or the bracelet to a position wherein theidentification information is observable. While this simple procedure isnot in and of itself difficult for a person to perform or extremelybothersome to a patient; when the procedure must be performed a dozen ormore times each day, the cumulative effect can be both bothersome to thepatient and burdensome to the person who has to identify the patient.

Fourth, once information has been printed on the bracelet, theinformation cannot be changed and additional information cannot beadded. This may not be important during short stays at a medicalfacility because printed information likely will not change appreciablyover a short period. However, during a long stay at a facility, someprinted information, in particular primary appearance characteristics(e.g. weight, etc.), may change and therefore should be updated.

One way in which to transfer identifying information from a bracelet toa medical instrument is to provide identifying information in bar codeform. Bar codes, however, also have short-comings. While a bar codeprovides a machine readable format, only a limited amount of informationcan be represented by a bar code. This is because bar codes typicallyrequire as much space per represented character than the conventionalalphabet. While smaller codes are possible, smaller codes are extremelydifficult to read. In addition, practically, only a certain length ofbar code is possible given the natural curve of a patient's wrist andthe requirement that the code be essentially flat during scanning. Inaddition, like conventional printing, bar codes cannot be modified andtherefore bracelet information cannot be modified after a bar isprinted. Because a bar code cannot be read unless it is essentiallyflat, a bar code, to a greater extent than conventional print, requiresspecial placement of a patient's wrist to read represented information.Furthermore, non-contact bar code reading devices are relativelyexpensive and often it takes several attempts to read a code accurately.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,493,805 describes an identification device including amemory “button” or chip which may be embedded within a bracelet, thebracelet worn by a patient. Identification information is electronicallystored in the chip and can be accessed by use of a hand held instrument,preferably by simply touching the chip with a probe or the like. Inaddition to the electronically stored information, basic patientinformation can be printed on the bracelet for visual observation by aperson. Preferably, the chip has a robust construction so that it isremovable from the bracelet without being damaged and is then erasable,sterilizable and reusable to identify another patient. However, despitethe chips robust construction, this patent contemplates that the chipmight be disposable after a single use. Chip disposal is preferred overreuse as reuse might be perceived as unsanitary and may therefore beobjectionable. This is particularly true where a patient has acommunicable disease or expires while wearing a bracelet. For thepurposes of this explanation, a bracelet including a simple memory chipwill be referred to herein as a memory chip bracelet.

Memory chip bracelets overcome many of the problems associated withprinted bracelets. For example, assuming a well designed memory chip,memory chip bracelets facilitate storage of a relatively large amount ofinformation. In addition, memory chip bracelets facilitate modificationof stored information. Moreover, memory chip bracelets facilitatetransfer of information from the chip by simply touching the chip via aprobe.

Unfortunately, memory chip bracelets also have several shortcomings.First, as with printed bracelets, identifying a patient wearing a memorychip bracelet still requires a doctor, nurse or orderly to position thechip in some orientation where good chip contact can be made. Because amemory chip includes a relatively large amount of information, in manycases the chip will be used more often than printed identificationinformation to access needed information. For example, with a printedbracelet, the bracelet is used only to identify a patient and otherinformation about the patient is usually accessed from some other source(e.g. a computer or a patient file).

With a memory chip bracelet, medicine administration history, treatmenthistory, symptoms, diagnostic history, etc., may all be stored on thechip. Upon entry into a patient's room, the chip may be used once foridentification and a second time for medicine or treatment history or toretrieve some other information. The chip may be used one or moreadditional times to access other information. Repeated chip readings areburdensome.

Second, where memory chips are reusable, despite sterilization therecould still be a perception of unsanitary conditions rendering reusablechips objectionable.

Third, where memory chips are reusable, there is a possibility that chipinformation might not be erased or may only be partially erased prior tobeing used to identify another patient. Such a mistake could lead toerroneous identification and ultimately to incorrect treatment ordiagnosis.

Fourth, chip removal, erasing, sanitizing, reinsertion into a newbracelet and rewriting to identify another patient is a burdensome andrelatively expensive procedure, the cost and bother of which probably isnot justifiable during all medical facility visits. For example, a tenminute visit probably would not justify such a costly and time consumingprocedure.

The U.S. Pat. No. 5,493,805 patent also contemplates a bracelet whereinthe chip includes an integral antenna for transmitting information to ahand held device. The preferred transmitter is a radio frequencytransmitter wherein an external coil generates a field which providesenergy to the chip within the field for transmitting information to thehand held device. Another chip embodiment might include a transmitterand a separate power source (e.g. a battery) providing power to thetransmitter for transmitting information. For the purposes of thisexplanation, bracelets including a transmitter embedded in a chip willbe referred to as transmitting bracelets.

Transmitting bracelets eliminate the need for reorienting a bracelet ora patients arm to access information from a chip. However, eventransmitting bracelets have several shortcomings. First, while a memoryon a chip may be inexpensive, transmitting circuitry on a chip increaseschip costs appreciably. While bracelet costs may be defrayed by reusingthe transmitting chip as indicated above, even after sterilization,reuse might be perceived as unsanitary and might therefore beobjectionable. For these reasons, relatively expensive transmittingbracelets may only be justifiable in instances where a patient isadmitted for an extended period and printed bracelets may be moresuitable under other circumstances.

Second, as with memory chip bracelets, where a transmitting chip isreused, there is always the danger that a portion of the memory mightnot be erased prior to rewriting and patient identification orinformation could be confused.

Third, if a bracelet is designed properly, it is difficult to remove achip from a bracelet. In patient identification, it is important that achip be attached to the bracelet so that it cannot inadvertently beremoved, dislodged or replaced. If a chip is to be reused, the chip hasto be removed despite integral attachment. For this reason, a chip mustbe securely lodged within and integral with the bracelet to prohibitinadvertent removal. Integral attachment makes removal difficult at bestand may require special tools (as recognized in the U.S. Pat. No.5,493,805 patent), further increasing identification system costs.

Fourth, where a chip has to be removed from a bracelet forsterilization, the chip could be damaged or even destroyed duringremoval, rendering the chip useless. While damaged memory chips might beinexpensive and therefore disposable, damaged transmitting chipsrepresent appreciable cost.

Fifth, in the alternative, instead of removing a chip from a bracelet,the entire chip and bracelet could be sterilized and the chip erased forreuse. It is even more likely, however, that this option would beperceived as unsanitary. In addition, while the chip could be erased andrewritten, printed identification information on the bracelet could notbe easily erased and reprinted.

Sixth, a transmitting chip may be damaged in certain environments. Forexample, such a chip might not be waterproof and therefore would bedamaged during bathing. In addition, a transmitter chip may besusceptible to magnetic or electric fields (e.g. MRI) within a medicalenvironment. Similarly, a transmitter chip might give off a field of itsown which could interfere with diagnostic or treatment fields.

Seventh, during extended hospitalization periods, a chip battery mightneed to be replaced. Replacing a battery while a bracelet is attached toa patient would be difficult at best.

When bathing, within a treatment or diagnostic energy field, or toreplace a battery, a bracelet could be removed. However, removal isundesirable because a removed bracelet could be confused with anotherbracelet. In addition, because bracelets are constructed so that theycannot be easily removed, usually a bracelet would have to be destroyedto be removed.

Moreover, it is contemplated that during a stay at a medical facility,only rarely is it necessary to remove a patient's identificationbracelet and therefore, if removed, typically removal is inadvertent andunintended. Currently no system is known for indicating when a medicalbracelet is inadvertently removed despite the need for patientidentification at all times.

Eighth, a bracelet which includes a transmitter assembly is oftenrelatively bulky. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,793,290 whichdescribes one wrist band transmitting device. Unfortunately, while abulky device may not be objectionable to a relatively healthy and strongpatient, many patients are relatively unhealthy and relatively weak.This is particularly true in the case of patients who remain in afacility for a long duration. Other generally weak facility occupantsinclude infants and small children. For these patient types a bulkytransmitter assembly is uncomfortable and generally objectionable.

For all of the reasons discussed above, it would be advantageous to havea patient identification mechanism which is inexpensive, disposable,rewritable, permanent during a patient's stay at a medical facility andaccessible without reorienting a patient or the bracelet.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment the present invention includes an identificationbracelet which includes a plastic strap having first and second ends, anelectronic memory device (e.g. a silicon chip), a securing means forsecuring the first and second ends together around a patient's wrist anda transponder. The memory device is integrally embedded in the strap andcannot be removed from the strap without destroying the device. Thetransponder includes circuitry which can receive information from andtransmit information to remote hand held electronic devices or the like.The transponder is releasably attachable to the bracelet adjacent thememory device. When attached to the bracelet, the transponder makescontact with the memory device and can receive information from, andprovide information to, the memory device.

The bracelet, including memory device, is inexpensive and completelydisposable. The transponder is relatively expensive. However, the costof the transponder is defrayed because the transponder can be sterilizedand reused. A processor for use with the transponder can either be aportion of the transponder assembly and hence reusable or can beintegrally secured to the strap and hence disposable along with theinexpensive memory device.

One object of the invention is to provide an identification mechanismwhich can provide a large amount of information about a patient. To thisend, in addition to a patient's name and identification number andprimary appearance characteristics, the memory device of the presentinvention can store a patient's complete medical history if desired.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system for identifyingpatient's which allows remote gathering of information from a patient. Arelated object is to allow patient identification without physicallytouching a patient to reorient an identification bracelet or a patient'sarm. With the transponder linked to the memory device, the transpondercan access memory information and transmit the information to a remoteelectronic gathering device.

In addition to having an embedded memory device, the strap may alsoinclude a viewing surface on which basic identification informationincluding name, identification number, etc., is printed.

One other object is to provide a single identification system which canbe used to identify all patient's in a medical facility. When a patientfirst enters a hospital, the patient can be provided with a braceletincluding a viewing surface and a memory device. Basic information canbe printed on the viewing surface while basic information and other moredetailed information (if available) can be written to the memory device.If the patient does not remain in the hospital for a long time, atransponder is never attached to the bracelet. During the patient'sshort stay, the printed information alone is used for identification.When the patient leaves the hospital or shortly thereafter, the braceletcan be removed and discarded.

However, if the patient remains in the hospital for an extended periodor will be undergoing extensive review or treatment during a shortperiod, a transponder can be attached to the bracelet and linked to thememory device so that information thereon can be transmitted and alteredto reflect recent medical history. Thus, the releasably securabletransponder may or may not be utilized, depending on the circumstances.

Another object is to meet the aforementioned objects yet provide arelatively inexpensive identification system. To this end, when apatient's stay in a hospital is short, the identification braceletcomprises only the plastic strap and the embedded chip. The expensivetransponder circuitry is not necessary. In addition, to reduce costs,where a transponder is used and prior to a patient leaving a hospital,the relatively expensive transponder can be removed and sterilized. Theinexpensive bracelet and memory device can be discarded. Thus, in manycases the relatively expensive transponder is not needed and, even wherea transponder is required, the transponder can be sterilized and reused.

Another object of the invention is to provide an identification systemwherein memory is never reused so that erasing and rewriting errorsnever occur. To this end, no matter what, after a memory device is usedto identify one patient, the same memory device is never reused toidentify a second patient.

In one embodiment the memory includes both a read only memory (ROM),which can be written to once and then only read, and a random accessmemory (RAM) which can be written to, erased and rewritten to severaltimes. In this case, it is contemplated that basic identificationinformation like a name and an identification number will be written tothe ROM once and thereafter cannot be altered. Other information will bewritten to the RAM and can later be altered as treatment, conditions, ordiagnosis changes. For example, information stored in the RAM can bechanged to reflect a patient's current weight should weight changeduring a long hospital stay or to reflect a procedure to be performed onthe patient.

Yet another object is to provide an identification device wherein basicinformation is unalterable but other information could be altered toreflect changes in treatment, diagnosis, etc. The RAM/ROM mix of memoryfacilitates this object.

Yet another object is to record the time when the transponder is removedfrom the bracelet. This can be done by recording the time to memoryevery minute, therefore the last recorded time is within 1 minute of thetime the transponder was removed. The time of removing the transpondercan also be recorded by the transponder detecting via a pressure switchor a conductive path being opened that it is being removed from thebracelet and then writing the time to the memory prior to thetransponder being completely removed.

In another embodiment a conductive loop is provided in a strap whichwhen the strap forms a loop around a patient's wrist (or some otherobject), forms a short or closed circuit about the wrist such that thestrap cannot be broken or cut without opening the short circuit. Theprocessor is linked to the conductive loop to sense when the circuit isopened. When the circuit is opened the processor generates an alarmsignal. Preferably, the alarm signal either causes an alarm indicator(e.g. an audible alarm) which is linked to the processor to indicate anopen circuit or is transmitted via the transmitter to a receiverproximate the patient's location which in turn notifies an attendingphysician (e.g. desk nurse or the like) that the strap has been cut. Thepreferred system includes the latter and is undetectable by the patientso as not to startle the patient.

Similarly, preferably, when a transmitter assembly is removed from thestrap inadvertently, the processor generates an alarm signal to indicateinadvertent removal. On one hand, the processor may be part of atransponder assembly, which includes an alarm indicator (e.g. audiblealarm) for indicating removal. In the alternative, when the processorgenerates an alarm signal, the transponder may transmit an alarm signalto an external receiver device in the patient's vicinity to notify anattending physician. On the other hand, the processor may be secured tothe strap. In yet another embodiment, the processor may routinely andperiodically generate an identification signal which is provided to amonitoring device, when the conductor is cut or the transmitter assemblyis removed the identification signal is not provided, thus indicating acut or removal.

In each embodiment where inadvertent strap cutting and transponderremoval cause the processor to generate an alarm signal, a deactivationdevice may be provided to deactivate the processor so that the processordoes not generate an alarm signal when the strap is cut or when thetransponder is removed.

Thus, another object of the invention is to provide an identificationdevice for which inadvertent removal is sensed. The conductive memberand processor together provide such a system.

In yet another embodiment, an indicator is linked to the processor forindicating when a processor is active. Thus, when a physician uses ahandheld device (HHD) to communicate with an identification braceletprocessor, the processor which receives a query from the HHD indicatesreception via the indicator and may indicate other activity (e.g.processing or transmission in a similar fashion).

Thus, one other object is to enable a physician to ensure that evenwhere two or more identification bracelets are proximate an HHD, thephysician is receiving data from an intended device. Where more than oneidentification device is proximate an HHD and the HHD is used to queryone of the devices, a device receiving a query and processing to respondthereto indicates processing via the indicator (e.g., audible or visualindicator). The physician can identify the responding device via thesignal. Where an unintended device or more than one device responds, thephysician can break communication and then reinterrogate after takingsteps to ensure that the intended device responds (e.g. repositioningthe HHD).

The invention is also useable to provide a secure facility or as part ofa security system. For example, medical facilities generally haverecognized the need for systems to ensure that infants and children arenot abducted. With the present invention and, in particular, theembodiments including a strap, an inventive device can be secured to aninfant/child which, when tampered with, indicates tampering via an alarmsignal of some type (e.g., an audible or visual indication, indicationat a nurses station, etc.)

In addition, in the context of a security system, the inventive devicemay indicate device tampering in any of several different ways. Forexample, the device may only be able to transmit an identificationsignal when the device has not been tampered with. In this case, amonitoring system tracks an identification signal from the device and isprogrammed to expect an identification signal periodically from thedevice. When an expected signal is not received, the system isprogrammed to assume tampering and indicates tampering when a signal isnot received. Thus, absence of an expected signal is considered a signalfor the purposes of the present invention. In the alternative, thedevice may only generate an identifier signal when tampered with.

In another embodiment of the invention the identification bracelet iscomprised of a strap that does not have the embedded memory chip. Inthis embodiment a reusable transponder is attached to the bracelet, thetransponder now including the memory chip to store information about thepatient. The transponder senses when it is attached to the strap by asensor. The sensor may include a first sensor coupled to the transponderand a second sensor coupled to the strap or any other base member towhich the transponder is attached. The sensor may be a button,conductive circuit, optical circuit, magnetic sensor or any othersensing device known in the electronic arts. The memory in thetransponder is programmed with patient information either before orafter it is attached to the strap. Once attached the transpondermonitors the sensor to determine if it is still attached to the strap.As long as it is attached to the strap the transponder may provide thepatient information to other devices and may receive additionalinformation to be stored in the memory. If the transponder is removedfrom the strap the transponder can perform one of several functions. Inone case the transponder can automatically erase the information storedin the memory so that the transponder can be safely attached to thestrap of another patient and reprogrammed with information for thatpatient. The process of erasing the memory can be performed when thetransponder is attached to the strap of another patient, so informationabout the previous patient is maintained until the transponder isreused. In another case the transponder may retain whatever informationis in the memory, but cannot be programmed with new information foranother patient until the previous patient's information has beentransferred to a separate computer system. In this case the transponderwill also disable any attempt to read its contents until a special codeis received. Similarly should the transponder include a visual display,the display will no longer display patient information after removalfrom the strap. This ensures that patient information for one patientcannot be used to identify another patient. In another case it canpresent an alarm, indicating the improper removal of the transponderunless the transponder has received a special code to disable such analarm. In another case the transponder is attached to the strap in atamper resistant manner, so that it can only be removed by noticeablydamaging the strap or the transducer. In a further case the transpondercan record the time of removal in the memory.

In another embodiment of the invention the bracelet is comprised of astrap with an integral transponder. The transponder includes a memorydevice to store patient information. In this embodiment the transponderwill now include a sensor to detect that the strap continues to beattached to the patient. If the strap is no longer attached to thepatient one of several different functions occur, the several differentfunctions including: erasing the memory, prohibiting reprogramming andaccess to the memory until a special code is received and theinformation in the memory is transferred to another computer, activatingan alarm, etc. Alternatively, the bracelet can be attached so that itcannot be unnoticeably removed.

In another embodiment of the above invention the transponder can includea transducer to detect and record to the memory parameters regarding thepatient wearing the transponder or the patient's environment. Forexample if the strap is firmly attached to the patient the transducercan detect the patient's heart rate by detecting mechanical or acousticmovement of blood through an artery and then recording the heart rate tothe memory. Alternately an auxiliary medical device can be attached tothe transducer to provide measurements about parameters regarding thepatient or their environment. For example a non-invasive blood pressuredevice can measure the patient's blood pressure and transfer themeasurement to the transponder via a cable or wireless transmission tobe recorded in the memory.

In another embodiment of the invention the bracelet also comprises astrap with a memory chip permanently attached to it. To the strap may beattached a sensing transducer that can sense patient parameters (e.g.heart rate, pulse oximetry) for the patient to which the strap isattached or about the environment (e.g. temperature) of the patient andwrite them to the memory. The sensing transducer can include a remotesensor that is connected to the strap making contact with the memory.The sensing transducer need not include a transmitter to transmit thecontents of the memory chip to a remote electronic gathering device aspreviously described. The memory can be linked to a conductive loop orconductive member in the strap as previously described so that removingthe bracelet from the patient causes the memory to no longer function.This embodiment allows for the recording of parameters in a manner suchthat the stored parameter readings can only be associated with thepatient and no other. The stored parameter readings in the memory chipcan be read by removing the transducer and placing a reading device incontact with the electrical contacts of the memory chip or thetransducer can include a transmitter that can send the parameterreadings to a remote data gathering device. Preferably, the parameterreadings include the time they were recorded.

In another embodiment of the invention the transponder is equipped totransfer information to and receive information from other devices viapersonal area network wireless (PAN) communications. A PAN uses lowpower capacitive coupling to transfer information from a device closelyassociated with the patient's body, but not necessarily touching theskin, such as the bracelets described above. Using PAN technology, thepatient information can be transferred to medical devices merely byplacing a transducer near the body or by placing an electrode ortransducer in contact with the body. The biomedical devices are designedto allow patient information in the form of PAN signals to be receivedand processed. A significant advantage of this method of communicatingis that these medical devices do not need an auxiliary reading device toreceive the patient information. Another advantage is that thebiomedical devices can automatically detect when they are being used ona new patient, as the received patient information will immediatelydiffer from the previously received information.

The present invention also includes an electronic information apparatusfor use with an object data device that stores information related to anobject. In this regard, the invention includes an apparatus comprising abase member having a connector for attaching the identificationapparatus to the object and a processor assembly including a housinglinkable to the base member, a memory for storing information, a datareader for reading information from an object data device, and aprocessor linked to the memory and to the reader for receivinginformation from the reader and storing the information in the memory.Preferably, the object data device is a data card including an interfacesegment, and the reader is capable of reading data via the interfacesegment. The interface segment may be a magnetic strip, although otherembodiments are contemplated including electronic contacts. To helpalign a magnetic strip with the reader, a “pass-through” slot may beprovided on the processor assembly housing which, when a card is passedtherethrough, automatically aligns the interface segment with thereader. All of the security functions described above are applicable tothis concept.

The present invention also includes a content-identifying containmentapparatus. The containment apparatus comprises a vessel forming acontainer volume having an opening, a closure member for closing theopening, a base member affixed to one of the vessel and the closuremember having at least one latching device, a memory for storinginformation, a processor assembly having a housing including a secondlatching device configured so as to be receivable by the first latchingdevice to secure the processing assembly to the base member and aprocessor linked to the memory for processing container controlinformation, the processor assembly, vessel, closure member and basemember each being apparatus components. The apparatus further includes alatch linked to one of the apparatus components. When the housing isattached to the base member, the latch is positioned with respect to thevessel so as to restrain the closure member when in a locked positionand to allow the closure member to be moved when in an unlockedposition. When the housing is attached to the base member, the processoris linked to the latch for controlling the latch. The memory may eitherbe integral with the base member or integral with the processorassembly. Preferably, the latch is a solenoid.

While various apparatus are described above, the invention alsocontemplates a plurality of different methods to be used with theapparatus above and to be used with other types of apparatus which canaccomplish similar functions.

These and other objects, advantages and aspects of the invention willbecome apparent from the following description. In the description,reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof,and in which there is shown an embodiment of the invention. Suchembodiment does not necessarily represent the full scope of theinvention and reference is made therefor, to the claims herein forinterpreting the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an inventive bracelet including areleasably attached transceiver;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bracelet of FIG. 1, albeit in a flatconfiguration prior to forming a loop and without the transceiver;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the inventive transceiver of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view taken along line 4—4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view taken along line 5—5 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bracelet of FIG. 1 in a loopedconfiguration, albeit without the transceiver attached;

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view taken along the line 7—7 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view taken along the line 8—8 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of a hand held electronic information gatheringdevice used with the inventive transceiver;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the electronics associated with theinventive bracelet;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an inventiveidentification bracelet with a transceiver disconnected from a braceletstrap;

FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of the bracelet of FIG. 11, albeitwith the transceiver connected to the bracelet strap;

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a preferred bracelet strap;

FIG. 14 is a view similar to FIG. 13, albeit of a third preferredembodiment of the inventive strap;

FIG. 15 is a view similar to FIG. 13, albeit of a fourth preferredembodiment of the inventive strap;

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an external data collection device for usewith the inventive apparatus;

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of another preferred bracelet strap;

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the electronics associated within aninventive bracelet strap;

FIG. 19 is a view similar to the view illustrated in FIG. 4 albeit ofanother preferred embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of two strap ends according to one aspectof the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a schematic illustrating an inventive necklace including areleasably attached transmitter device;

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustrating an inventive badge including areleasably attached transmitter device;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the braceletstrap;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an inventiveidentification bracelet with a transceiver disconnected from thebracelet strap of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a block diagram of the electronics associated with the sixthembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of an inventivebracelet including an attached transceiver having a data card readerslot;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the bracelet of FIG. 26, albeit in aflat configuration prior to forming a loop;

FIG. 28 is a cross sectional view taken along the line 28—28 of FIG. 26,albeit with the bracelet strap not completely formed in a closed loop;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of an inventivebracelet of the present invention having a connector attached to it incommunication with another device;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an ninth embodiment of a transceiverand mating fastener section similar to that of the first and secondembodiments;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of a transceivermounted to an adhesive base;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of the presentinvention similar to the first and second embodiments of a transceiversecured to a container; and

FIG. 33 is a cross section view taken along the line 32—32 of FIG. 32,albeit illustrating the transceiver of FIG. 32 secured to the containerof FIG. 32.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A. Hardware

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference charactersrepresent corresponding elements throughout the several views, and morespecifically referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the inventive identificationassembly 100 generally includes a bracelet 104 and a communicationdevice in the form of a transceiver 200. Bracelet 104 is preferablyformed of a tear resistant plastic material and has first and secondends 106, 108, respectively. A clasp 110 is integrally connected tofirst end 106 and is constructed so that the clasp 110 can receivesecond end 108 and lock second end 108 relative to first end 106 forminga loop or ring (see also FIG. 6). To this end, it should be noted thatany mechanism for securing ends 106 and 108 together is suitable. Forexample, the ends may be secured via adhesive, melting, crimping, etc.

Referring specifically to FIG. 2, bracelet 104 forms an identificationsurface 112 and includes two identification sections including a viewingsection 116 and an electronic memory section 120. It is contemplatedthat basic identification information including a patient's name, anidentification number and primary appearance characteristics (e.g.height, weight, hair color, etc.) would be printed on viewing section116.

An electronic memory assembly 124 is provided at memory section 120.Referring also to FIGS. 7 and 8, assembly 124 includes a housing 128, asilicon memory device or chip 140, first and second electrical contactsets, each set including three electrical contacts, the contactscollectively referred to by numeral 134, and first and second guidanceor alignment runners collectively referred to by numeral 136. Each setdefines a line of contacts 134 which essentially traverses width W andthe lines are parallel. Chip 140 can take any of several different formsas well known in the art. At a minimum, chip 140 must be configured toreceive digital data via one or more chip inputs (not illustrated) andto provide data via one or more chip outputs (not illustrated).Referring to FIG. 10, preferably, chip 140 includes both a read onlymemory (ROM) 144 and a random access memory (RAM) 146. ROM 144 is onlywritten to once and thereafter the information therein cannot bealtered. RAM 146 can be written to many times and information storedtherein can be altered.

In the illustrated embodiment, chip 140 comprises a flat wafer-likeelement which is centrally deposited within memory section 120. Housing128 is formed of plastic, covers chip 140 forming an upper surface 150and is bonded to identification surface 112 covering essentially all ofmemory section 120. Contacts 134 are exposed at distal ends 154 flushwith upper surface 150 and extend down through housing 128 makingelectrical contact at proximal ends 156 with input and output terminals(not illustrated) on chip 140.

Runners 136 extend from identification surface 112 across a width W ofbracelet 104, one runner on either side of housing 128, are parallel,are preferably formed from the same plastic used to form bracelet 104and are integrally attached to or formed as part of bracelet 104.

Referring now to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, among other things transceiver 200includes a cylindrical transceiver housing 204 and a clip 208.Transceiver housing 204 includes a lateral cylindrical wall 212, a topwall 214 and a base wall 218. Top wall 214 forms a single opticalopening or aperture 222. Base all 218 forms an undersurface 226 andthree apertures collectively referred to by numeral 230. Apertures 230are arranged in the same pattern as a row of contacts 134 (ee FIGS. 2, 7and 8).

Referring to FIGS. 4, 5 and 10, an infrared transponder 234, a processor240 and a battery 244 are all included inside transceiver 200 and arehoused inside housing 204. Clock 241 can be an integral part ofprocessor 240. A circuit board 248 is mounted inside transceiver housing204. Transponder 234, processor 240, clock 241 and battery 244 are allmounted on circuit board 248. Transponder 234 is mounted just belowoptical opening 222 so that infrared signals can be receivedtherethrough and transmitted therethrough. Battery 244 provides power toboth processor 240 and transponder 234. Processor 240 is linked totransponder 234 for receiving information therefrom and providinginformation thereto.

Transponder 234 is capable of receiving and sending data via infraredsignals and its operation should be well known to those skilled in theelectronic arts.

Three electrical contacts are also linked to circuit board 248 andspecifically to processor 240. Each of contacts 250 extends down througha separate one of apertures 230. Preferably, a distal end 254 of eachcontact 250 extends past undersurface 226. Contacts 250 aresymmetrically configured to define a line of contacts.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 1, 3 and 5, undersurface 226 forms firstand second channels or recesses collectively identified by numeral 260on opposite sides of apertures 230. Channels 260 are parallel and spacedapart a distance equal to the distance between runners 136. Channels 260are arranged with respect to contacts 250 such that when runners 136 arereceived within channels 260, contacts 250 are aligned with one of thelines of contacts formed by contacts 134.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, clip 208 includes an arm like memberwhich has a proximal end 264 integrally connected to base wall 218 atone end of channels 260. Clip 208 extends from a proximal end 264 to adistal end 270 along the direction of channels 260 and is parallel tobase wall 218. Thus, undersurface 226 and clip 208 together define achannel 274. A finger-like projection 278 extends from distal end 270toward undersurface 226 but only traverses part of the distance betweendistal end 270 and undersurface 226. The distance D5 between proximalend 264 and projection 278 is at least as great as width W of bracelet104.

Referring to FIG. 9, the inventive bracelet is meant to be used with ahand held data generating and receiving device HHD 300 which includes adisplay 304, a plurality of buttons for controlling the HHD 300 and aninfrared transponder 308. Although not illustrated, HHD 300 also includea processor linked to each of buttons 312, display 304 and transponder308 for controlling HHD operation. HHD 300, like transceiver 200, cangenerate and receive information via infrared signals. Thus, HHD 300 andtransceiver 200 can communicate and exchange information.

B. Operation

In operation, the inventive patient identification bracelet can be usedin several different ways for patient identification. It is contemplatedthat when a patient enters a medical facility to be examined or treated,initially a bracelet 104 like the one illustrated in FIG. 2 will beprovided. To this end, a special printing and electronic writing device(not illustrated) is used to provide identifying information on thebracelet. The identifying information includes basic information (e.g.name, identification number, etc.) printed on identification surface 112in the viewing area. In addition, the identifying information alsoincludes the basic information and perhaps some other information whichis electronically written to chip 140. To write to chip 140 the writingdevice includes electrical contacts which transmit data when they areplaced in contact with contacts 134.

The basic information including name and identification number iswritten to the ROM while other information which might change during apatient's stay at the facility is written to the RAM so that informationcan be changed later if desired.

After an identifying bracelet 104 is provided, the bracelet 104 islooped around a patient's wrist (see FIG. 6) and clasp 110 is used tosecure ends 106 and 108 together such that bracelet 104 cannot beremoved from the patient's wrist without destroying the bracelet 104.Once bracelet 104 is placed around a patient's wrist, the bracelet 104is not removed until the patient is leaving the medical facility. Thus,because the bracelet remains on the patient at all times, assumingcorrect information on the bracelet, bracelet information can be reliedupon to perform proper patient identification.

When patient treatment or examination of a patient takes a short time, abracelet without a transceiver is sufficient for identification purposesand therefore no transceiver is provided. To identify a patient, aperson simply reads information from viewing section 116 in theconventional manner. In the alternative, a person having a specialreading device could make electrical contact with contacts 134 and readinformation stored on chip 140.

However, when patient treatment or examination is extended or involvesmany facility personnel so that patient identification has to beperformed many times during treatment or examination and identificationbecomes bothersome to a patient and tedious for facility personnel, atransceiver 200 is provided on bracelet 104 as illustrated in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 through 5, to attach transceiver 200 to bracelet104, channel 274 is aligned with memory section 120 such that runners136 are aligned with channels 260 and projection 278 is adjacent memorysection 120. Then, memory section 120 is forced into channel 274 so thatrunners 136 are received within channels 260. Referring also to FIGS. 7and 8, after memory section 120 is completely within channel 274, distalends 254 of each contact 250 touch contacts 134 and are pressedthereagainst between undersurface 226 and clip 208. When so positioned,processor 240 can receive information from, or provide information to,chip 140 via contacts 250 and contacts 134.

Referring also to FIG. 9, with transceiver 200 firmly attached tobracelet 104 a doctor or nurse can use an HHD 300 to send infraredsignals to transceiver 200. The infrared signals generated via HHD 300should be of limited strength so that only a transceiver within a shortrange of the emitting device will receive the emitted signals. Forexample, signal strength might be limited such that only a transceiverwithin two or three feet of the HHD will receive emitted signals. Forthe purposes of this explanation, the term emitting range will be usedto refer to the distance over which emitted infrared signals will bereceived via transceiver 200.

Referring still to FIG. 9 and also to FIGS. 7 and 8, to identify apatient, a doctor or nurse places HHD 300 within the emitting range oftransceiver 200. The doctor then presses one of buttons 312 instructingHHD 300 to send a signal to transceiver 200 indicating that thetransceiver should provide at least a subset of the information whichidentifies the patient and is stored on chip 140. After the appropriatebutton 312 is pressed, HHD 300 sends an infrared signal via transponder308.

Assuming transceiver 200 is close enough to HHD 300 to receive theinfrared signal, transponder 234 receives the signal and provides thesignal to processor 240. Processor 240 decodes the signal, recognizesthat the signal requests identifying information from chip 140 andaccesses chip 140 via contacts 250 and 134. Once identifying informationhas been read from chip 140, processor 240 formats the information intoa message for delivery to HHD 300. Next, processor 240 sends the messagevia transponder 234 and infrared signals to transponder 308. Assumingtransponder 308 is still within the emitting range, transponder 308receives the identifying message and displays the message via display304 for the doctor or nurse to view. In addition, the HHD may store theidentifying message for later retrieval or may correlate the identifyingmessage with other information about the patient, thereafter displayingthe correlated information in addition to patient identification.

During a patient's stay at a facility, transceiver 200 can be removedfor any of a number of different reasons. For example, prior to bathinga patient transceiver 200 can be removed. In addition, transceiver 200can be removed to replace a battery. Moreover, transceiver 200 can beremoved prior to surgery or prior to placing a patient in a diagnosticor treatment field. In addition, if transceiver 200 becomes damaged itcan be replaced. Importantly, in each of these cases, when transceiver200 is removed, bracelet 104 remains on the patient's wrist. Thus, thepatient is never separated from his/her identification information andthe changes of incorrect identification are essentially negligible.

The time when transceiver 200 is removed from bracelet 104 can also berecorded to chip 140. This can be done by processor 240 obtaining thetime from clock 241 and recording it to chip 140 every minute, thereforethe last recorded time is within 1 minute of the time the transponderwas removed. This time of removal can also be recorded by transceiver200 detecting via a pressure switch or a conductive path being opened(see below) that it is being removed from the bracelet and then writingthe time to chip 140 prior to transceiver 200 being completely removed.

In addition, medical history or future treatment information can bestored on chip 140 which can be accessed via HHD 300 or other medicalequipment such as an imaging machine or a treatment machine equippedwith a transponder and a processor. Moreover, information on chip 140can be used in conjunction with diagnostic and treatment equipment toensure that diagnostic and treatment procedures are not performed onincorrect patients. To this end, each diagnostic and treatment machinecan be equipped with a transponder device for communication withtransceivers 200. Like the HHD, prior to performing a diagnostic ortreatment procedure on a patient, it is contemplated that the machinesends an interrogation message via its transponder to a patient'stransceiver 200 requesting that the transceiver identify the patient. Inresponse transceiver 200 sends back identifying information. The machinethen compares received information with information correlated to thepatient for whom the treatment or diagnosis was ordered. If theinformation received is identical to the correlated information, themachine initiates and performs the procedure. However, if theinformation is not identical, the machine indicates that there is nomatch and halts the procedure until a doctor or nurse can identify thediscrepancy.

In addition to reading information from chip 140, processor 240 can alsoadd information to the information already stored in chip 140 or canrewrite information thereby changing information in the RAM section ofchip 140. To this end, HHD 300 can also be used to send additionalinformation to transceiver 200 for updating or adding information tochip 140. When this type of information is received by processor 240 viatransponder 234, processor 240 decodes the information and recognizesthe information as updated or additional information to be stored onchip 140. Then processor 240 writes to chip 140 providing the updated oradditional information.

After patient treatment and examination and before the patient leavesthe medical facility, transceiver 200 can be removed from bracelet 104by simply separating clip 208 from undersurface 226 and removed bracelet104 from channel 274. Once transceiver 200 is removed, bracelet 104 canbe removed from the patient's wrist by cutting and bracelet 104 can bediscarded. Transceiver 200 is then sterilized and can be reused at alater time to identify another patient by clipping transceiver 200 on adifferent bracelet.

C. Alternative Embodiments

Referring now to FIG. 11, a second embodiment of the present inventionis illustrated. As with the first embodiment, the second embodimentincludes a bracelet 400 and a detachable transceiver 420. Manycomponents of this second embodiment are essentially identical in bothform and function to the first embodiment and therefore will not beexplained here again in detail. This second embodiment differs from thefirst embodiment in several ways.

Transceiver 420 includes several features which are not, but could beincluded, in the first embodiment. For example, in addition to thefeatures described above, transceiver 420 includes a display 424, anindicator device 428 and a button 432. It is contemplated that display424 might be an LCD linked to a transponder processor (similar to FIG.10) for visually imparting patient identifying information.

Indicator device 428 is also linked to the transceiver processor, cantake several different forms and can be used for any of severaldifferent purposes. For example, indicator device 428 can be an audioalarm which generates a loud buzz, beep or ring. In the alternative,indicator device 428 may be a visual alarm (i.e. light source) foremitting light. One application for indicator device 428 is to indicatewhen transceiver 420 has received a signal via transponder 234.Similarly, indicator device 428 could be used to indicate whentransceiver 420 is transmitting a signal. To either of these ends,indicator device 428 can either generate an audio or a visual indicatorsignal updating transceiver status.

In addition, where the transceiver processor has interrogationcapability, indicator device 428 may be used as an alarm. For example,one system is described above wherein a diagnostic or treatment machineinterrogates a patient bracelet prior to performing a diagnostic ortreatment procedure. Where a machine interrogates a bracelet and patientinformation transmitted by the bracelet is not identical to informationcorresponding to a patient for which the diagnosis or treatment wasordered, the machine will not perform the procedure until a doctor ornurse determines why the information did not match. Here, where thetransceiver has interrogation capability, instead of the machineinterrogating the transceiver processor, the processor may insteadinterrogate the machine.

It is contemplated that prior to a diagnostic or treatment procedure, adiagnostic or treatment machine sends information to the transceiveridentifying the patient for which the treatment was ordered. Uponreceiving the identifying information, the transceiver processorcompares the information to the patient identifying information storedin the transceiver memory. If the information received is identical tothe information stored the transceiver does nothing or may send back aconfirmation signal. However, if the information received and stored isdifferent, transceiver 420 excites indicator device 428 thereby eitheraudibly or visually indicating that the pending procedure should behalted.

Button 432 is also linked to the transceiver processor and can bedepressed to manually cause transceiver 420 to transmit patientinformation. In addition, button 432 can be used in conjunction withdisplay 424 to cause identifying information to either appear on orscroll across display 424. Moreover, button 432 could be an electroniclead which could be touched with an electronic probe attached to an HHDor the like to electronically transfer information from a braceletmemory.

In addition to having additional features, the manner in whichtransceiver 420 connects to bracelet 400 is different in this secondembodiment. Instead of having alignment runners 136 (see FIG. 2),referring still to FIG. 11 and also to FIG. 12, bracelet 400 now formstwo parallel tracks collectively referred to by numeral 404 which extendupwardly from identification surface 112 on opposite sides of memorysection 120. Facing surfaces of tracks 404 form linear recessescollectively referred to by numeral 408 which traverse across braceletwidth W. Recesses 408 define a distance D1 therebetween while distalends of tracks 404 define a distance D2 which is slightly less thandistance D1. An aperture 412 is formed by each track 404 which extendslaterally and centrally through the track recess 408.

The outer shell of transceiver 420 is square having oppositely facinglateral surfaces collectively referred to by numeral 436 which define atransceiver dimension D3. Two lateral extensions collectively referredto by numeral 440 extend laterally from surfaces 436, a separateextension 440 extending from each of surfaces 436. The distal ends ofextensions 440 define a dimension D4 which is greater than dimension D3.A spring loaded button 444 extends laterally and centrally from eachlateral extension 440 (only one illustrated). Dimension D4 isessentially the same as dimension D1 while dimension D3 is essentiallythe same size as dimension D2. Thus, transceiver 420 fits within thespace defined by tracks 404.

To secure transceiver 420 to bracelet 400, transceiver 420 is placed ateither end of tracks 404 with extensions 440 aligned with recesses 408.Then transceiver 420 is forced along tracks 404 such that extensions 440are received within recesses 408. Eventually, buttons 444 are forcedoutwardly through apertures 412 and secure transceiver 420 to bracelet400. To remove transceiver 420 from bracelet 400, buttons 444 aredepressed and transceiver 420 is slid out from between tracks 404.

One problem which might occur when attempting to interrogate a braceletis that the bracelet might be positioned so that the bracelettransponder is not directly accessible. In this case, a person trying toidentify the patient might have to reposition the bracelet, a procedurewhich should be avoided if possible. One other feature of the secondembodiment which is different than the first is that this embodiment isdesigned so that it can transmit (and receive) infrared information frommany secondary transmitters positioned at different bracelet surfacepoints, thereby overcoming the position problem.

To this end, referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a lateral transponder port448 is formed by the transceiver shell in one of extensions 440 adjacentbutton 444. An infrared transponder 452 linked to the transceiverprocessor is positioned adjacent port 448 for transmitting and receivinginfrared signals through port 448.

Bracelet 400, including one track 404, forms a channel 470. Channel 470begins within recess 408, passes through track 404 and then through andalong a length of the bracelet forming an outlet 474 which extendsthrough identification surface 112. A fiber optic member 478 havingproximal and distal ends 480 and 482 is positioned within channel 470,proximal end 480 within recess 408 and distal end 482 terminated atoutlet 474. When transceiver 420 is secured to bracelet 400, port 448 isaligned with proximal end 480. Thus, light transmitted by transponder452 is received by proximal end 480 and is again emitted through distalend 482. Similarly, light received by distal end 482 is emitted throughproximal end 480 and is received by transponder 452.

Referring also to FIG. 13, preferably, a plurality of fiber opticmembers 478 are provided within bracelet 400, each member distal end 482a, 482 b, 482 c, 482 d, 482 e, 482 f and 482 g terminating at adifferent position along the length of bracelet 400. It is contemplatedthat each member proximal end (not illustrated) would be adjacent port448 so that a single transponder 452 could provide signals to andreceive signals from each member distal end 482. In this embodimentbracelet 400 operates like a large antenna so that the bracelet isalways in a position to receive and transmit information.

A variation on this embodiment might include an additional transponderlinked directly to the transceiver which, when the transceiver issecured to the bracelet, wraps around the bracelet so that the secondtransponder is located on the opposite side of a patient's wrist fromthe main portion of the transponder. In this case, the transceiver couldtransmit and receive information on both sides of a patient's wrist.

Referring also to FIG. 14, a third embodiment of the invention isillustrated. As transponders become less expensive, it is contemplatedthat it will become economically viable to provide a ring of discardabletransponders on a bracelet 500. A conductive loop 504 having first andsecond loop ends and a midsection can be linked via contacts 134 to atransceiver processor (not illustrated). The loop 504 midsectiontraverses the length of bracelet 500 from a first end 508 to a secondend 512. A plurality of transponders 516 are connected to loop 504.Signals to be transmitted are then provided to each transponder 516 fortransmitting. Thus, this embodiment also solves the bracelet positioningproblem by facilitating transmission and reception of signals fromessentially all sides of bracelet 500.

In addition, this third embodiment is advantageous for other reasons.For example, loop 504 can be linked to contacts 134 such that when loop504 is cut (e.g. to take bracelet 500 off), contacts 134 cannot impartor receive information from a transceiver processor. In this case,placement of memory section 120 is important. By placing memory section120 next to clasp 110 at first end 508, loop 504 can traverse alongessentially the entire length of bracelet 500 thereby making it nearlyimpossible to remove bracelet 500 without rendering the memory thereonunusable. Here, to remove bracelet 500 a person would have to cutthrough either memory section 120 or loop 504. An alternative wherememory section 120 is centrally disposed along the bracelet length wouldbe to provide a second loop (not illustrated) extending from memorysection 120 in the direction opposite of loop 504 traversing thedistance between memory section 120 and clasp 110.

In addition to the embodiments described above, as transceiver circuitrybecomes less expensive, it might become viable to have a transceiverbuilt into a disposable bracelet. This is particularly true where only asmall amount of patient identification information is required. Forexample, an HHD or a computer which interrogates a bracelet might beequipped with a patient data base for storing detailed patientinformation. In this case, the bracelet might only require a smallamount of identification information such as a unique patient number.Once an HHD receives a patient number, the HHD can correlate the numberwith the patient's name and other information regarding the patient. Inthis case the transceiver processor would be extremely inexpensive andcould be discardable.

Where an entire bracelet, including transceiver, is discardable, aparticularly advantageous bracelet may be configured. Referring to FIG.15, a fourth embodiment of an inventive bracelet 540 is illustrated.Bracelet 540 includes a strip of plastic or Kapton material having firstand second ends 544, 548, respectively. A clasp 110 is linked to end 544for connecting ends 544 and 548 together. A memory 552 is secured tobracelet 540 as are a plurality of rf transponder circuits collectivelyreferred to by numeral 560. Memory 552 is linked to each of circuits 560by a bus 564. A conductive loop 568 is also linked to each of circuits560 to provide power thereto. To provide power to circuits 560, loop 568is constructed such that, when placed within a specific signaturemagnetic field, a current is generated in loop 568 which powers circuits560 and memory 552. When circuits 560 and memory 552 are powered, eachcircuit 560 transmits the abbreviated patient identification informationstored in memory 552.

It is contemplated that an HHD can be equipped with a magnetic couplingdevice useable to generate the loop's signature magnetic field therebyimparting energy to circuits 560. When circuits 560 are energized,transmitted information is received by the HHD. Then, the HHD correlatesthe patient information with more detailed information which ispresented to a health care worker for review.

This fourth embodiment has many advantages. In addition to impartingpatient identification information without being touched, where loop 568traverses the entire length of bracelet 540, bracelet 540 could not beremoved without destroying loop 568 and thereby destroying the powersource for circuits 560. Thus, once removed, bracelet 540 would not beable to identify a patient. In addition, no battery is required withthis fourth embodiment.

In the alternative, the fourth embodiment might only include one circuit560 or each circuit 560 might include its own loop 568.

One other advantage of this embodiment is that this embodiment can beconfigured in an extremely small and light-weight package and thereforeis suitable for use with relatively weak facility occupants. Forexample, devices 540 configured in this manner would be advantageous foridentifying infants or infirm patients for which a bulky clip-ontransmitter device might be objectionable. In addition, identificationdevices of this type would not include removable components (e.g. atransmitter device) and would be completely sealed rendering thesedevices relatively safe for use with infants or small children.

In addition to the features described above, the present invention mayalso include a processor 240 which is programmed to indicate whentransceiver 200 has been inadvertently removed from bracelet 104. Tothis end, processor 240 is programmed to, after transceiver 200 has beenattached to bracelet 104, periodically identify if transceiver 200 isstill fastened to bracelet 104. Where not fastened, processor 240generates an alarm signal. In one embodiment the alarm signal istransmitted from the transceiver 200 to an external alarm indicatordevice.

Referring also to FIG. 16 an exemplary alarm indicator device 1500includes a receiver 1501, a processor 1503 and an alarm 1505. Receiver1501 receives the alarm signal and provides the signal to processor 1503which in turn causes alarm 1505 to indicate that a transceiver has beeninadvertently removed from a bracelet. The alarm 1505 may take any ofseveral different forms but most preferably is an indicator on acomputer screen or the like at an attending physician's work station. Inthis manner, although a transceiver has been removed and a physician hasbeen notified, the patient is not startled.

Referring again to FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, in addition to the hardwaredescribed above, either one or both of an audible indicator 301 and avisual indicator 303 (e.g. LED) may be secured to circuit board and 248and therethrough linked to processor 240. In this case, processor 240(see FIG. 4) may be programmed to indicate via one or both of indicators301 or 303 any of several different occurrences. For example, as above,when transceiver 200 is inadvertently removed from bracelet 104,processor 204 may indicate removal by LED 303 or speaker 301 or both.

In any embodiment where transceiver removal causes processor 240 togenerate an alarm signal, it is contemplated that some mechanism wouldbe provided for deactivating the processor 240 so that when atransceiver 200 is purposefully removed from a bracelet 104 theprocessor would not provide an alarm signal. An exemplary deactivationmechanism would be an HHD 300 (see FIG. 9) which can be used to providea deactivation signal to the transceiver 200. In this case the processor240 is programmed to recognize the deactivation signal and thereafterdeactivate the alarm signal generating feature. Other deactivationmechanisms are contemplated.

As another example, indicators 301 and 303 can be used to indicatewhenever processor 240 is in a specific or active state. To this end, aprocessor is in an active state when either receiving information,providing information or processing information and any combination ofactive states may be indicated via LEDs, audible sound, or the like.This feature enables a physician to determine which of a plurality ofbracelets within a general area is receiving and transmitting data. Forexample, assuming a physician enters a room where first and secondpatients are located, each patient having an assembly 100 secured abouta wrist. The physician intends to use an HHD 300 (see FIG. 9) to querythe assembly 100 on the first patient's wrist and therefore approachesthe first patient. Despite her intentions, the physician's HHD 300 mayquery the second patient's assembly 100 which would provide incorrectinformation to the HHD (i.e. the physician might believe the HHDinformation relevant to the first patient, not the second). With theaudible/visual indicators, the physician can verify which assembly 100is actually active (e.g. receiving or providing data) thereby avoiding amix-up.

In addition, referring again to FIG. 14, in yet another embodiment ofthe invention, in addition to transponders 516 which are spaced alongloop 500, a plurality of visual indicators (e.g. LEDs) collectivelyreferred to by numeral 307 can be positioned along loop 500 forindicating processor active states. It is contemplated that the ring ofindicators 307 would operate in a manner essentially identical to one ofindicators 301 or 303 (see FIGS. 1 and 3) to indicate any of severaldifferent occurrences. In particular, processor 240 may be programmed toexcite each of indicators 307 during a specific active state or duringany of several different active states. This “ring” of LEDs enables aphysician to identify an active processor despite bracelet position on apatient and is advantageous over an audible indicator for at least tworeasons. First an audible indicator may startle a patient or wake asleeping patient. This problem is avoided with the LED ring. Second, ina noisy environment, audible indication may be difficult to perceivewhereas an excited LED is unmistakable.

Referring now to FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, a fifth embodiment of theinvention is illustrated. This embodiment, like the others describedabove, includes both a bracelet 1104 and a transceiver 1200. Much of theconstruction and operation of this fifth embodiment is similar oridentical to the construction and operation described above. For thisreason only distinctions between the fifth embodiment and theembodiments above will be described here in detail. In FIGS. 17 through20, elements which are similar to elements described with respect to thefirst embodiment above are identified by the same number proceeded by aA1.@ For example, while a processor is identified by numeral 240 above,the fifth embodiment processor is identified by numeral 1240 and so on.

With respect to noteworthy differences between the fifth embodiment andthe other embodiments described above, referring to FIGS. 17, 18 and 19,bracelet 1104 includes first and second sections 1104 a and 1104 b,respectively, which extend in opposite directions form a fasteningsection 1120. The distal end of section 1104 a is 1106 and the distalend of section 1104 b is 1108. A memory device 1140 is secured tobracelet 1104 in section 1120 such that device 1140 cannot be removedwithout damaging bracelet 1104. Each of sections 1104 a and 1104 b hasan external surface 1112 (viewable in FIG. 17) and an internal surface1325 (see FIGS. 19 and 20) opposite surface 1112.

While memory is currently relatively inexpensive, it has been recognizedthat processor hardware costs have been deteriorating appreciablyrecently and will soon reach the point where processor hardware may bedisposable. Thus, it will be advantageous in some cases to providedisposable processor hardware on a disposable strap. Referringspecifically to FIGS. 17, 18 and 19, to take advantage of the disposablenature of future processors in this fifth embodiment, instead ofproviding processor hardware in a reusable transceiver, processor 1240is integrally secured to bracelet 1104 adjacent memory device 1140 andwithin section 1120 such that processor 1240 cannot be removed frombracelet 1104 without damaging the bracelet 1104. Processor 1240 islinked to memory device 1140. In this embodiment processor 1240 includesa plurality of processor contacts 1134 which extend up from proximalends 1156 which link the processor to distal ends 1154. Distal ends 1154contact transceiver contacts 1250 when transceiver 1200 is fastened tobracelet 1104.

Referring to FIGS. 17, 19 and 20, first and second ribbon likeconductive members 1311 and 1313 are encased in bracelet sections 1104 aand 1104 b, respectively. Proximal ends of each member 1311 and 1313 arelinked to processor 1240. Section 1311 extends to end 1106 while section1313 extends to within a distance L1 of end 1108. The portion L1 ofsection 1104 b is referred to hereinafter as a flap 1469. A distal end1315 of section 1311 having a length L2 is exposed through internalsurface 1325 and a relatively smaller distal end 1317 of section 1313 isexposed through external surface 1112. An extending member 1331 extendsup from portion 1317. Length L1 is slightly longer than length L2.

Referring still to FIGS. 19 and 20, glue strips collectively referred toby numeral 1319 surround end 1315 on internal surface 1325. To securebracelet 1104 about a patient's wrist, bracelet 1104 is looped aroundthe wrist such that internal surface 1325 faces the wrist and externalsurface 1112 faces outwardly. Then, member 1331 is aligned with end 1315and surfaces 1325 and 1112 are pressed together so that the glue strips1319 secure the ends together. When end 1315 and member 1331 are pressedtogether a short circuit forms therebetween and about the patient'swrist through processor 40.

It should be appreciated that by providing one relatively long exposedend 1315, one relatively short exposed member 1331 and flap 1469adjacent short member 1331, loop length can be adjusted while stillsealing the short circuit between members 1311 and 1313. This is becauseflap 1469 or some other portion of 5 bracelet 1104 covers member 1315entirely despite positioning of member 1315 and end 1331. Thus, forexample, on one hand where the distal end of member 1315 contacts end1331 to provide a large loop, flap 1469 covers the remainder of member1315. On the other hand, where the proximal end of member 1315 contactsend 1331, bracelet 1104 covers member 1315 to form a completely sealedand short circuited conductive member including members 1311 and 1313.

With the configuration as described above, after a loop and shortcircuit have been formed about a patient's wrist, processor 1240 canroutinely check to determine if the loop (i.e. bracelet 1104) has beencut. If the loop has been cut rendering the bracelet unsecured, theshort circuit through members 1311 and 1313 is broken. To indicate anunsecured bracelet, processor 1240 can be equipped to perform any ofseveral different indicating functions. For example, if transceiver 1200is fastened to bracelet 1104, processor 1240 may be programmed to causeindicators 1301 or 1303 to indicate a cut. In the alternative, processor1240 may cause transceiver 1200 to send an alarm signal to an externalalarm device (see FIG. 16) to indicate an unsecured bracelet.

According to yet another aspect of the invention any of the embodimentsabove can be used to facilitate data tracking and gathering where apatient is transferred from one medical facility to another. Forexample, a primary physician may want to track a patient's medicalrecords as a patient is moves from a hospital into a nursing home forextended care. To this end, while the patient is in the hospital it iscontemplated that a bracelet of the above kind is secured in a loopabout the patient's wrist. With the bracelet secured a transceiver isfastened to the bracelet. The transceiver and bracelet are used togetherwhile the patient remains in the hospital. Prior to leaving the hospitaland entering a nursing home, the physician uses her HHD (see 300 in FIG.9) to transmit an Internet network address corresponding to thephysician to the transceiver. The processor receives the address andstores the address in the memory device 140 or 1140 for use at thenursing home to deliver reports back to the primary physician. Beforethe patient leaves the hospital, the transceiver is removed andtherefore the bracelet is rendered dormant, although the bracelet stillmaintains the patient information, including the physician's Internetaddress in the memory device.

When the patient arrives at the nursing home, a second transceiveridentical in design to the first transceiver is fastened to the braceletto perform all of the functions indicated above. In addition, the secondtransceiver is used to transmit the primary physician's Internet addressto an external device and into the nursing home's Internet system wherethe address is stored. The external device would include a receiver, aprocessor and a memory storage device for storing the received data.Thereafter, any time data is added to the nursing home's computer systemwhich corresponds to the patient, the information is also automaticallydelivered to the primary physician's network address so that the primaryphysician can track patient care. This type of automated system cutsdown paperwork and the like required to apprize all persons involved inpatient care and also cuts down on information errors.

Referring now to FIGS. 23, 24, and 25 a sixth embodiment of theinvention is illustrated. This embodiment, like the others above,includes both a bracelet 104 and a transceiver 2124. Much of theconstruction and operation of the sixth embodiment is similar oridentical to the second embodiment and others above in construction andoperation. For this reason only the distinctions between the sixthembodiment and the embodiments above will be described here in detail.In FIGS. 23, 24, and 25 elements that are similar to elements describedin the previous embodiments use similar numbers. For example a processoridentified by the numeral 240 is identified by the same numeral in thesixth embodiment.

With respect to noteworthy differences between the sixth embodiment andthe other embodiments described above, referring to FIGS. 23, 24 and 25,bracelet 104 includes section 104a which extends in the oppositedirection from a fastening section 2120. Section 104a has a distal end106 and an opposing end 108 which is joined to the fastening section2120. In this embodiment there is no memory chip attached to bracelet104. Bracelet 104 has an external surface 112 (viewable in FIG. 23) andan internal surface 325 (see FIGS. 23) opposite surface 112.

In this embodiment memory chip 140 used to store identifying informationis contained in transceiver 2124 (see FIG. 25). While memory iscurrently relatively inexpensive, there are some extremelycost-sensitive applications for identifying a patient (e.g.,identification within a doctors office). Thus, it will be advantageousin some cases to provide a disposable strap, without memory, and areusable transceiver with memory.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 25 instead of providing memory in adisposable strap, memory 140 is an integral part of transceiver 2124such that transceiver 2124 can be removed from bracelet 104 eitherwithout damage to bracelet 104 or in other situations in which it isdesirable that the removal of transceiver 2124 must be done in a tamperevident manner.

Referring to FIG. 24, glue strips collectively referred to by numeral1319 are placed at distal end 106 on external surface 112. To securebracelet 104 about a patient's wrist, bracelet 104 is looped around thewrist such that external surface 112 faces outwardly. Then, fasteningsection 2120 is aligned with end 106 and surfaces 112 and 325 arepressed together so that the glue strips 1319 secure distal end 106 tothe underside of fastening section 2120. Other methods of securing thedistal end 106 of section 104a to the fastener section 2120 of thebracelet are contemplated and well know in the prior art.

Transceiver 2124 can include a display 424, an indicator device 428 anda button 432. It is contemplated that display 424 might be an LCD linkedto a transponder processor (similar to FIG. 10) for visually impartingpatient identifying information. When display 424 is used to displaypatient identification information, bracelet 104 need not have anyidentifying text written on it.

Operation of the sixth embodiment is similar to that of the secondembodiment, however, there are several differences. First, memory chip140 in transceiver 2124 can be programmed with patient identificationinformation by signals sent from HHD 300 (also referred to herein as anenabling component or device) or a separate computer equipped with acompatible transponder 308. The memory chip 140 can be programmed eitherbefore or after transceiver 2124 has been attached to fastener section2120.

Second, transceiver 2124 also has attachment sensor 2126 that detectswhen transceiver 2124 has been attached to fastening section 2120 viathe engagement of the first and second latch derius, such as tracks 404and extensions 440. Sensor 2126 is shown as an electrical button that,when lateral extension 440 is placed in recess 408 of the fasteningsection, is depressed forming a short circuit that is monitored byprocessor 240. In this manner processor 240 is able to determine whenthe transceiver has been placed in fastening section 2120 and when it isremoved. Sensor 2126 can be in the form of a light emitter-detectorwhere recess 408 includes a light reflector, electrical contacts, or amagnetic sensor where the recess includes a magnet. Other sensors arecontemplated. For example, the sensor 2126 can include a first sensorcoupled to the transceiver and a second sensor coupled to the braceletor any other base member to which the transceiver is attached.

Third, once memory chip 140 has been programmed and processor 240 hasdetermined (via sensor 2126) that transceiver 2124 has been attached tobracelet 104, the transceiver 2124 provides patient identificationinformation to HHD 300 or other computer devices with compatibletransponders 308. The transceiver 2124 can also receive information forstorage in memory chip 140 from HHD 300. However, when transceiver 2124is removed from fastening section 2120 by pressing buttons 444 throughapertures 412, sensor 2126 detects the removal and processor 240 isnotified of the removal by the presence of an open circuit. When thetransceiver is removed processor 240 can perform one of several“security” functions.

One security function is for processor 240 to erase the contents ofmemory chip 140, thereby preventing patient identification informationfor one patient being accidentally provided when transceiver 2124 isattached to another strap 104 corresponding to another patient. Anothersecurity function is for processor 240 to inhibit transmission ofpatient identification information to HHD 300 and inhibit reception ofinformation to be stored in memory chip 140 from HHD 300. However, inthis case transceiver 240 will transfer the contents of memory chip 140when transceiver 240 receives a special coded message from a HHD used toretrieve the contents of the memory chip prior to reusing transceiver2124 for another patient. Once again information in transceiver 2124cannot be associated with the wrong patient. Another security functionis for processor 240 to clear or erase memory chip 140, but only whentransceiver 2124 is attached to another strap 104. When transceiver 2124includes display 424, another function is for processor 240 to no longerdisplay patient identification information when the transceiver isremoved from the bracelet.

Another security function is to record in memory 140 the time from clock241 when transceiver 2124 is removed from bracelet 104. Yet anotherfunction is to disable access to the memory until a special code orevent occurs, at which point the disabled memory can be re-enabled.

Another function is for transceiver 2124 to issue an alarm signal, aspreviously described, indicating that it was removed from the bracelet104. The alarm signal can be inhibited by a special code being sent totransceiver 2124 from HHD 300.

In any of the aforementioned cases when some system component isdisabled or an alarm is generated, the security function may furtherinclude monitoring for an enabling component on the transceiver for anaccess code and when the code is received, either re-enabling thedisabled component or ending the alarm. Referring to FIG. 25, where thesecurity function is to disable memory 140, a transponder 234 includinga receiver may be the enabling component which may be equipped toreceive an access code from an HHD (see 300 in FIG. 9). In thealternative, where the security function includes disabling transponder234 (i.e., disabling a receiver/transmitter), a separate enablingcomponent 233 such as a mechanical button for receiving a “morse-like”code may be provided. Processor 240 performs the access code monitoringstep.

Bracelet 104 can also include a conductive member 2128 encased inbracelet 104 similar to the conductive members 1311 and 1313 shown inFIGS. 17 and 20. Conductive member 2128 is attached to electricalcontact 2130 where bracelet 104 mates with fastening section 2120. Theportion L3 of section 1104 a is referred to hereinafter as a flap 1469.The distal end 106 of section 1104 a has member 2128 exposed throughexternal surface 112. When bracelet is looped around a patient's wristand secured as previously described, conductive member 2128 is placed inelectrical contact with contact 2132 of fastener section 2120.Accordingly, transceiver 2124 also has electrical contacts 2140 on itsunderside to mate with contacts 2130 and 2132 when attached to fastenersection 2120, similar to contacts 250 and 1250, described in priorembodiments. Processor 240 can now use contacts 2140 as sensor 2126 todetermine that transceiver is attached to bracelet 104 as previouslydescribed. Now if bracelet 104 is removed from the patient processor 240can perform any of the functions mentioned above regarding erasingmemory chip 140, no longer transferring memory contents, no longerdisplaying identification information, and presenting an alarm signal.

Conductive member 2128 can also be used to provide signals to additionaltransponders 504 spaced around bracelet 104 similar to those shown inFIG. 14 and described in the second embodiment. Alternatively,conductive member 2128 can be used to provide signals to one or moreadditional indicator devices 428 spaced around bracelet 104. Whentransceiver 2124 is in communication with HHD 300, processor 240 can useindicator devices 428 to indicate to the user of the HHD the patient theuser is in communication with without having to orient transceiver 2124to a viewable or hearing position and thereby reduce manipulations tothe patient's wrist to orient the transceiver.

FIGS. 26, 27, and 28 illustrate a seventh embodiment of the invention.This embodiment unlike the others above has the transceiver as anintegral part of bracelet 104, and the transceiver or informationapparatus, is capable of receiving information from an object datadevice, such as a data card. However, much of the operation of seventhembodiment is similar to the operation of the sixth embodiment, and forthis reason, only the distinctions between the seventh and sixthembodiment will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 27 transceiver 2124 is placed at one end of bracelet104 and at the distal end 106 of the bracelet are snaps 2160 andelectrical conductor 2162 connecting the two snaps together. To securebracelet 104 about a patient's wrist, bracelet 104 is looped around thewrist such that exterior surface 112 faces outwardly. Then snaps 2160 atthe distal end 106 are aligned with matching snap holes 2164, the snapsare then pressed into the holes securing bracelet 104 to the wrist. Whenthe snaps 2160 are pressed into holes 2164 the snaps are placed inelectrical contact with contacts 2166 attached to circuit board 248 oftransceiver 2124. Processor 240 monitors for the presence of the shortcircuit between the contacts 2166 caused by snaps 2160 and conductor2162, indicating that the bracelet is attached to a patient's wrist.

As previously described for the sixth embodiment, when bracelet 104 isattached to the patient, the patient information in memory chip 140 canbe sent to HHD 300 and other information can be received from HHD 300for storage in the memory chip.

If bracelet 104 is removed from the patient processor 240 can performany of the security functions mentioned above regarding erasing memorychip 140, inhibiting transfer of memory chip contents, no longerdisplaying identification information, recording of the time removal,and presenting an alarm signal. As an alternative, processor 240 can belinked to conductive member 2168 which is electrically connected toprocessor 240 in transceiver 2124 and to snaps 2160. In this caseprocessor 240 monitors for a short circuit between one end of conductivemember 2168 around bracelet 104 and thorough one or more of snaps 2160and contacts 2166. Conductor 2168 ensures that processor 240 is able tocontinuously monitor that the bracelet is secured to the patient andthat even if the bracelet is cut the functions previously described willbe performed. This embodiment is advantageous as it allows for aconvenient and reusable bracelet to be used to identify patients withidentification information, yet if the bracelet is moved from a firstpatient and secured to a second patient there is no chance ofinformation related to the first patient being associated with thesecond patient.

Conductive member 2168 can also be used to provide signals to additionaltransponders 504 spaced around bracelet 104 similar to those shown inFIG. 14 and described in the second embodiment.

As best shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 28, the transceiver 2124 includes adata reader 699 having pass-through slot 700 extending transverselythrough the transceiver 2124. The slot 700 is sized to receive an edgeportion of an object data device, such as a data card 702 having amemory device 704 linked to one of more readable or interface segmentssuch as conductive contacts 706 by a suitable conductor 707. The slot700 is also sized so that the data card 702 may be disposed within andpassed through the slot 700 such that the contacts 706 physicallycontact terminals 708 linked to the processor 240 of the transceiver2124. Data stored in the card memory device 704 can be transferredthrough the terminals 708 to the memory chip 140 of the transceiver2124. The reverse process can also be conducted such that data stored intransceiver memory chip 140 can be transferred to the card memory device704. However, it is preferably that before data is transferred to thecard memory device 704 a comparison be made between a portion of thebasic information in memory chip 140 and the card memory device 704, ifthere is a match then the data can be transferred otherwise an alarm canbe presented indicating that a card for a different patient has beenpresented.

Preferably the data card 702 is a “Smart Card” type memory device havingread/write data storage capabilities, as known in the art. However, thedata card may also be any other suitable object data storage device,such as card having a bar code or magnetic strip, like a credit card.Moreover, the memory is preferably read/write memory, however, read onlymemory cards could also be used with the present invention.

Also, once data is transferred from a data card 702 having datapertaining to the object or person to which the transceiver 2124 isattached, preferably, the transceiver 2124 will not transfer data to orfrom a data card pertaining to an other object or person unless aspecial code is supplied from a control card or other external device,such as HDD 300.

In an eighth embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIG. 29,memory (not shown) affixed to the bracelet 104 is coupled to externalidentification electronics (not shown) via a cable 2192 attached to thebracelet 104 by connector 2190 at clasp 110. In this embodiment,identification and other such data is transferred to and from the memoryon the bracelet 104 via the cable 2192 to a control computer,measurement devices or other such electronic equipment.

In a ninth embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIG. 30 , thebracelet 104 is now replaced by fastener section 2220. Fastener section2220 and transceiver 2224 are similar to fastener section 120 andtransceiver 420 of the second embodiment of the present invention shownin FIG. 11. In this example, fastener section 2220 is shown as anindependent platform with contacts 134 attached to a memory chip.Parallel tracks 404 with recesses 408 allow transceiver 2224 to be slidonto and secured to fastener section 2220. As before, button 440 isdepressed allowing lateral extensions 440 to pass into recesses 408.When button 444 is aligned with aperture 412, button 444 extendsoutwardly holding transceiver 2224 to the fastener section. When soaligned contacts 250 (not shown in FIG. 30) of the transceiver makeelectrical contact with contacts 134, allowing processor 240 to be incommunication with memory chip 140.

Transceiver 2224 can use connector 2180 to receive measurements relatedto object 2232 from other parameter measuring devices for storage inmemory chip 140 and transceiver can include transducers to directlymeasure and store parameter measurements.

Fastener section 2220 has an adhesive layer 2226 on its lower side sothat it can be conveniently affixed to surface 2230 of object 2232.Other forms of affixing are contemplated as described above.

In a variation of the ninth embodiment, the fastener section 2220 doesnot have contacts or a memory chip. Instead memory chip 140 is part oftransceiver 2220 as described in the sixth embodiment.

A tenth embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 31. In thisembodiment transceiver 2240 is directly affixed to surface 2230 usingadhesive layer 2226. Transceiver is similar to transceiver 2124 of theseventh embodiment and includes memory chip 140. Transceiver 2240 canuse connector 2180 to receive measurements related to object 2232 fromother parameter measuring devices for storage in memory chip 140 andtransceiver 2240 can include transducers to directly measure and storeparameter measurements. Preferably, these stored parameters will includethe time of their measurement which may be provided by the connectedtransducer or by a clock that is part of processor 240 or incommunication with processor 240.

Transceiver 2240 uses attachment sensor 2126 to determine that iscontinues to be affixed to surface 2230. As long as transceiver 2240continues to be affixed to surface 2230 it can display and transferidentification information related to object 2232. When removedprocessor 240 can perform any of the functions mentioned above regardingerasing memory chip 140, no longer transferring memory chip contents, nolonger displaying identification information, and presenting an alarmsignal.

An eleventh embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 32 and33. In this embodiment, primary apparatus components include thetransceiver 2324 and a container vessel 2360. The container 2360 iscomprised of base 2362 and top referred to also as a closure member 2364(shown in the closed position), which is attached to the base by hinge2366, together defining compartment 2368. Fastener section 2370 is anintegral part of container base 2362. Fastener section 2370 includescontact 134 and memory chip 140 (not shown) and parallel tracks 404 withrecesses 408. Unlike the second embodiment fastener section 2370,recesses 408 do not extend completely through tracks 404, as they areblocked by wall 2372. In this case transceiver 2324 is similar totransceiver 420 of the second embodiment. Transceiver is designed tomate with fastener section 2370 in only one orientation; by engaginglateral extensions 440 into recesses 408, buttons 444 being depressedallowing lateral extensions 440 to continue to pass into recesses 408,and sliding transceiver 2380 up until head wall 2382 reaches wall 2372.At this point buttons 444 are aligned with apertures 412, the buttonsextend outwardly holding transceiver 2224 to the fastener section. Whenso aligned contacts 250 (see FIG. 33) of the transceiver make electricalcontact with contacts 134 allowing processor 240 to be in communicationwith memory chip 140. While the cap is shown using a living hinge, othercap methods are contemplated such as screw on or press-fit on caps.

Memory chip 140 may then be programmed with identification informationrelated to the contents of container 2360 (for example informationrelating to a medication placed in container) using transceiver 2380 toreceive the identification information including name, identificationnumber, etc., from HHD 300 or the memory chip may have been previouslyprogrammed with such identification information. The basicidentification information may identify to whom the contents of thecontainer are to be given. When transceiver 2380 is attached to fastenersection 2370 and the memory has been programmed with identificationinformation, processor 240 of transceiver 2380 uses electrical connector2381 to activate solenoid 2384, causing the solenoid 2384 to extend toposition 2386. In the extended position solenoid 2384 prevents top 2364from being opened and transceiver 2380 cannot be removed from thefastener section without damaging either container 2360 or transceiver2380.

Transceiver 2380 operates as do transceivers 200 or 420 described above,providing identification information to HHD 300 or to any of thetransceivers 200, 420, and 2124 previously described.

To open top 2364, transceiver 2380 must receive a special code from HHD300 that is compared to a portion of identification information inmemory chip 140 of fastener section 2370. When the code matches aportion of the identification information, processor 240 of transceiver2380 activates solenoid 2384 moving it to a retracted position, allowingtop 2364 to be opened and when desired, transceiver 2380 to be removedfrom fastener section 2370. The special code can be patientidentification information for a patient to whom the contents ofcontainer 2360 is to be given, the code coming from a bracelet 104.Alternately transceiver 2364 can retract the solenoid at specifiedtimes, in response to a measured parameter received or measured bytransceiver 2364, or as a result of specific events. The solenoidoperation data or code can be supplied by an external device or storedin the memory.

In a variation of the eleventh embodiment of the present invention, thefastener section 2370 does not include memory chip 140 and contacts 134.Instead memory chip 140 is part of transceiver 280. In this embodiment,processor 240 of transceiver 2380 can extend solenoid to extendedposition 2386 when transceiver 2380 is attached to container 2360 andhas received identification information from HHD 300.

Processor 240 monitors when transceiver 2380 is removed from fastenersection 2370 or when the fastener section is removed from surface 2230via any of the sensing methods described above. When transceiver 2380 isremoved, processor 240 can perform any of the security functionsdiscussed previously.

D. Operation of Invention to Label Information

In previous embodiments of the invention the transceivers can be used toreceive information about the patient from HHD 300 or other devices. Toensure that the information being received is related to the patient theinformation should be labeled with patient identification information soprocessor 240 can compare this information with that previously storedin memory chip 140. If there is a match the data is stored in memory, ifthere is no match the data is not stored and an alarm signal can begenerated.

While this method of verifying data is useful, there may be a number ofmedical devices used on a patient that do not have any provision foridentifying the patient. These devices can be used to monitor parametersregarding the patient, such as blood pressure, heart rate, or roomtemperature. In this case transceivers 200, 420, and 2124 (see FIGS. 24,25, and, 27) can use connector 2180 that allows a medical deviceassociated with the patient to send measurements to processor 240 forstorage in memory chip 140. Once stored in memory chip 140, themeasurements will be associated or labeled with the patientidentification information previously stored.

Alternately, for embodiments where a memory chip 140 is part of abracelet (see embodiments 1 through 5) the transceiver can be replacedby a similarly shaped connector 2190 (see FIG. 29). The connector can beattached by cable 2192 to a medical device to monitor a parameterregarding the patient. The medical device sends measurements to thememory chip for storage. The measurements are labeled with the patientidentification information previously programmed in the memory chip. Thememory contents can be read by removing the connector and replacing itwith a transceiver 200, 420, or 2124 to transfer the measurements to HHD300 or the HHD can be equipped with another connector to directly readthe memory chip using the electrical contacts 134 or 1134. The time ofeach measurement may be provided by the medical device or clock 241 incommunication with processor 240 and is recorded with the measurement.

Alternately, in any of the embodiments a transceiver can be equippedwith transducer 2200 (see FIG. 25) to measure a parameter regarding thepatient. In this case the transceiver can record the measurements in thememory chip 140, again labeling the measurements with the patientidentification information. As described in the third embodiment,removal of the bracelet 104 by cutting a conductive loop or member canresult in the memory chip 140 no longer being able to receiveinformation for storage.

E. Using a Personal Area Network for Communication

Personal area networks (PAN) are well known and therefore will not beexplained here in detail. For background regarding capabilities andgeneral understanding of an exemplary PAN, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,914,701which issued in 1997. A personal area network can use two devices thatare in proximity with a person, but not necessarily touching the person.They can communicate with each other using a local near-fieldelectrostatic coupling. Information is transferred by modulating anelectrostatic coupling of current into the body (capacitive coupling). Asufficiently low carrier frequency (e.g. 300 kHz) can be used tominimize the propagation of the communications signal energy beyond thebody.

Many uses have been proposed for PANs. For example, it has beencontemplated that a PAN can be used to exchange information between acellular telephone in a users pocket to a personal digital assistant inanother pocket. It is contemplated that the above embodiments of thetransceiver can use PAN as a means of receiving information from orsending information to an HHD 300. Further, by using a PAN many medicaldevices that use electrodes or probes placed on a patient canautomatically receive the patient identification information, passingthe carrier frequency and modulated signals through the electrodes orprobes and through the device's front end amplifiers or filters to ademodulator. After being demodulated the device will have received thepatient identification information. As long as the electrodes or probesremain on or very near the patient the medical device will associate anymeasurements or data recordings with the patient identificationinformation. When the electrode or probe is no longer near the patientthe medical device will no longer receive patient identificationinformation and may discontinue collecting measurements or datarecordings. An instrument can only receive patent identificationinformation from the patient the probe or electrode is in closeproximity to and therefore will not collect such information from anyother patient. Similarly, as long as the electrode or probe is near thepatient the medical device can send information through its front-endamplifiers for near-field electrostatic coupling to the patient's bodyto be received by a transceiver.

It should be understood that the apparatuses described above are onlyexemplary and do not limit the scope of the invention, and that variousmodifications could be made by those skilled in the art that would fallunder the scope of the invention. For example, in some embodiments twofasteners are described above for connecting a transceiver to abracelet, however, clearly other fasteners could be used to make thisconnection. In addition, while the present invention is described usinginfrared transponders, other types of transponders (e.g. rftransponders) could be used. Moreover, while an HHD is described as aremote electronic device used with the inventive bracelet, other devicessuch as a personal computer having a transponder attached thereto couldbe used for this purpose. Furthermore, the bracelet need not includeprinted information. In addition, while conductive loops have beenillustrated and described above for absorbing electromagnetic energy andlinking a memory to one or more transmitters, it would also beadvantageous to provide a loop which traverses the entire length of abracelet simply to ensure that once the bracelet is cut off one patientit is never again secured to a different patient. To this end, a loopcould be configured which, when cut, forms an open circuit in the memorythereby rendering the memory unusable. Additionally, a card reader slotcould be incorporated in any of the above embodiments.

Moreover, while the invention is described above as including electricalcontacts on the transceiver and the bracelet, clearly the inventionshould not be so limited. For example, transceiver 200 may be designedto communicate with chip 140 via magnetic coupling wherein transceiver200 excites chip 140 and, when chip 140 is excited, chip 140 transmitsdata via an electromagnetic field which is sensed by transceiver 200.Because transceiver 200 and chip 140 are very close when linked, a verysmall field would be required to excite chip 140 and transmitinformation back and forth between chip 140 and transceiver 200.Magnetic coupling might be advantageous in that manufacturing tolerancescould be reduced as contacts need not be precisely positioned for properoperation. This is particularly advantageous in instances where atransceiver is routinely removed or is used many times therebysubjecting contacts to extreme wear and tear. Thus, the term “contact”is used generically to identify any element which can be linked in anyway (e.g. electrically, mechanically, magnetically, through use oflight, etc) to another element or contact for exchanging data.

In addition to the operations described above, the present inventioncontemplates that the inventive apparatus could be used to perform otheroperations. For example, when a patient is to have a magnetic resonanceimaging procedure performed, an imaging machine can query a transceiverto determine if a patient on whom the procedure is about to be performedis the correct patient. If two transceivers are within transmittingdistance of the machine, a correct transceiver attached to the patienton whom the procedure is to be performed, both transceivers mightrespond simultaneously. In this case, several different features mightbe provided for.

For example, the machine might indicate an error and allow a technicianto identify the patient wearing the correct transceiver. In thealternative, the machine might transmit a signal to each transceiverwithin transmitting range indicating that the correct transceiver shouldidentify itself. Where the correct transceiver is equipped with a light,a visual display or an audio beeper, the correct transceiver couldindicate itself by lighting the light, indication on the display, orsounding the beeper.

Moreover, while certain features and inventive aspects have beendescribed above in the context of an assembly wherein the processor ispart and parcel to a transceiver and other features have been describedabove in the context of an assembly wherein the processor is integrallysecured to the bracelet such that the processor cannot be removedwithout damaging the bracelet, any of the features described above maybe provided on either of the two assemblies. For example, while aprocessor which generates an alarm signal when a bracelet is cut wasdescribed in the context of the fifth embodiment of the inventionincluding a processor which is integrally secured to the bracelet,clearly, such an alarm signal generating feature could also be providedwhere the processor is reusable and is part of the transceiver. In thiscase, the conductive members (1311 and 1313 in FIG. 19) could be linkedto the processor through the memory contact/transceiver contact assemblyto detect a conductor cut.

In addition, while a “short circuit” for the purposes of identifying acut bracelet strap has been described as being formed by two separateconductive members which are essentially glued together at their distalends, a similar suitable conductive member could be formed from a loopconductive member as illustrated in FIG. 14. In this case, assuming theloop extends along essentially the entire length of a strap, when strapends are secured together any strap cut would necessarily cut the loopconductor. Thus, the term “short circuit” is used in a general sensehere and in the claims which follow to mean a circuit wherein, after astrap including a conductor is secured about an object (e.g. a patient'swrist), the strap cannot be cut without cutting the conductor andthereby modifying operation of the device.

Moreover, while the invention has been described as one wherein abracelet is “securely” fastened about an object (e.g. a wrist) clearlymany aspects of the present invention are also applicable to systemswherein a strap or other fastening device is not “securely” fastened toan individual or an object. For example, referring to FIG. 21, aninventive transponder device 2000 may be used with a necklace 2002 inthe military or the like wherein the necklace includes a dog-tag 2004having a memory chip 2006 installed therein. In this case, thetransmitter device 2000 would typically not be attached to dog-tag 2004.However, if a person wearing the dog-tag 2004 were admitted to a medicalfacility, transmitter device 2000 would be attached to tag 2004 toaccess identification information stored in memory chip 2006 during thestay at the medical facility. In this regard, this embodiment may notinclude a dog tag and may instead include a memory chip embedded innecklace 2002.

Similarly, referring to FIG. 22, a removable device may include a badge2010 which pins onto a person's shirt or the like, a transceiver device2012 only secured to badge 2010 under certain circumstances such as whenan individual enters a particular building where relatively highsecurity might be important. A memory chip 2014 is secured to badge2010. Other base members for housing hardware having the inventivefeatures are also contemplated (e.g. a belt) and the base membersclaimed (i.e. strap, necklace, badge) are not meant to be limiting inthis regard. In any of the “non-secure” base member or base assemblydesigns where a transmitter device and memory device may be removed froman individual or an object without damaging the memory device, any ofthe permutations of the present invention described above, could beemployed although some may not make sense with unsecured memory devices.For example, an alarm indicating that a transmitter device has beenremoved where the base member is a necklace would not make much sense.This is because the purpose of the alarm would be to indicate removal ofthe transmitter and the entire necklace as a whole could be removedwithout setting off the alarm by simply removing the entire necklace.Nevertheless, in the case of a badge, badge removal or transmitterdevice removal from a base member could be indicated via an alarm signalof some type. For example, a clip for securing a badge to a wearer'slapel may be linked to a device processor, the processor recognizingwhen the clip is opened after being attached to a lapel. Opening couldbe sensed via a small electrical current passing through the clip, apressure sensor or so on. The opening of clip can be used as a signal,as previously described for the sixth embodiment, for the processor toperform any of the functions mentioned above regarding erasing memorychip 140, no longer transferring memory contents, and presenting analarm signal.

In addition to the applications described above, the invention may alsobe used in other useful medical applications. For example, where amother gives birth to an infant and the mother has an identificationdevice attached to her wrist, at the time of birth, it is contemplatedthat an identification device would be attached to the child's wristalso. To insure that there is no mix up between children when thenewborn child is taken to the facility nursery at the time of birth, itis contemplated that at the time of birth the mother's identificationdevice could be activated to first identify the time of birth via aprocessor clock and thereafter to transmit the mother's name and perhapsother identification information and the specific time of birth to theinfant's identification device. In addition, the mother's device wouldstore the time of birth in an associated device memory. In this manner,assuming the infant's bracelet is not removed, the mother's informationand the specific time of birth would clearly identify the baby as beingrelated to the specific mother at subsequent times. By measuring time inmicroseconds and having each processor clock being able to set to onlywithin a minute of time in precision, the time recorded in the baby'sbracelet is effectively a secret random number only recorded in thememory of the two bracelets, ensuring the number cannot be guessed.

A similar feature is also contemplated where, due to prolonged facilityoccupancy, an identification strap has to be replaced (e.g. the originalstrap is soiled). In this case, it is contemplated that a firstidentification device could be linked to a strap on the patient and asecond identification device could be linked to a new strap. Thereafter,the first device could be activated to transmit all data on the firststrap memory to the second device, the second device thereafter storingall of the transferred data on the memory of the second strap.

Furthermore, while the invention is described above as one where an HHDis used to interrogate an identification device, other systems ordevices are contemplated which result in additional and advantageoussynergistic results. For example, it is contemplated that each facilityroom will include one or more monitoring devices for monitoringidentification devices in the room. The monitoring device may be securedat a central ceiling location. In one embodiment, the monitoring devicemay be able to interrogate and also receive identifying information. Inthis case, it is contemplated that the monitoring device mayperiodically (e.g. every second) query each identification device in aroom, thereafter receiving an identification signal from each device inthe room. In another embodiment, each identifying device in a room my beprogrammed to periodically (e.g. every second) send an identifyingsignal to the monitoring device to indicate presence and correctoperation of the identifying device.

In either of the embodiments described (i.e. where the monitoring deviceinterrogates and where the identifying device autonomously sendsidentifying signals), a simple and relatively inexpensive securitysystem can be devised. For example, in the case of a facility nurserywhere a plurality (e.g. 10) of infants are kept, the monitoring deviceand separate identification devices on each infant may be programmed todetect when an infant is removed from the nursery and/or when anidentification device is rendered inoperable. In this case, where themonitoring device expects an identification signal from anidentification device and does not receive the expected signal, themonitoring device can be programmed to indicate lack of the signal.

In a particularly advantageous security application, identificationdevices like the device illustrated in FIG. 15 which includes atransmitter, an rf antenna and memory integrally secured to a strap areused with an rf power source and a monitoring device. In this case, therf source provides power to the identification devices, theidentification devices in turn transmitting identification signals tothe monitoring devices. This embodiment is advantageous as theidentification devices can be made extremely light-weight.

Moreover, while the fasteners described above include mechanicalfasteners, chemical fasteners such as adhesives may also be used toaffix a base member to an object or the like. For example, in oneembodiment the base member may be a label for a medication container ordispenser which includes adhesive on one side of the label and includesa memory device embedded in or attached securely to the label. Such anexample is described and illustrated in detail in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/832,613 which was filed on Mar. 28, 1997 and isentitled “Interactive Label For Medication Containers and Dispensers”and was filed by the present inventor. In another embodiment, referringto FIG. 11 of the present application, instead of being attached to astrap 112, the tracks 404 and memory device associated therewith andpositioned therebetween (i.e. the device located generally at position120) and referred to hereinafter as device 120, device 120 may besecurely attached via an adhesive to a box or package, the memorystoring information associated with the content of the box or package.In this case, a transceiver 420 could be attached to the package or boxtemporarily via tracks 404 and could be used to identify the content ofthe box or package electronically. Thus, in this context the term“fastener” has an extremely broad meaning including chemical as well asmechanical attachment means.

Furthermore, referring to FIGS. 32 and 33, while the embodiment thereinteaches base member or fastener 2372 secured to vessel container 2362,base member 2370 could be secured to the closure member or lid 2364.Similarly, while latch solenoid 2384 is shown integral with processorassembly or transceiver 2380, latch 2384 may be integral with basemember 2370, lid 2364 or container 2362 so long as solenoid 2384 iscontrollable by the transceiver processor (not illustrated in FIG. 32)when lid 2364 is closed and transceiver 2380 is secured to base member2370 and solenoid 2384 is juxtaposed with respect to other assemblycomponents so that when the solenoid is extended lid 2364 is locked.

Moreover, while a mechanical lock is illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33,other lock types are contemplated such as a magnetic locking device.

To apprize the public of the scope of this invention, I make thefollowing claims:

I claim:
 1. An electronic identification apparatus for identifying anobject, the apparatus comprising: a base member having a connector forattaching the base member to the object; a processor assembly attachedto the base member and including: a memory for storing data; a sensorfor sensing when the processor assembly is linked to the object; and aprocessor linked to the memory and the sensor, the sensor indicating tothe processor whether or not the processor assembly is linked to theobject, the processor performing at least one security function when theprocessor assembly is de-linked from the object.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein the processor assembly further includes a transponderlinked to the processor.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the basemember is a strap having first and second end segments and is capable ofassuming a secured configuration wherein the first and second endsegments are adjacent and the strap forms a loop around the object, aconductive lead extends from the first to the second end segments, theprocessor assembly further including first and second conductive leads,the first end segment being coupled to the first conductive lead and thesecond end segment being coupled to the second conductive lead to form aloop.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a plurality oftransponders spaced along the loop and linked to the processor assembly.5. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a plurality ofindicators spaced along the loop and linked to the processor assembly.6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sensor is selected from a groupconsisting of a pressure sensor, photoelectric sensor and a magneticsensor.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises atleast one electrical terminal of the processor assembly positioned tocontact at least one corresponding electrical terminal of the basemember when the processor assembly is attached to the base member. 8.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one security functionincludes clearing the memory contents.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the processor assembly further includes one of an audible alarm,an rf alarm and a visual alarm linked to the processor.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 9, wherein the processor assembly is removablyattached to the base member and the security function includesactivating the alarm when the processor assembly is removed from thebase member.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processorinhibits the alarm when a disable signal is received.
 12. The apparatusof claim 11, wherein the processor assembly includes a transponderhaving a receiver and the apparatus is to be used with an externalcontrol device, the control device providing the disable signal to theprocessor via the transponder.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theprocessor assembly further includes a display linked to the processorfor visually presenting at least a subset of the memory contents. 14.The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one security functionincludes suppressing the display of the memory contents.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one security functionincludes disabling the memory.
 16. The apparatus of claim 15, whereinthe processor assembly includes a transponder having a receiver forreceiving control signals from at least one external control device and,wherein, the at least one security function includes, after disablingthe memory, when an access code is received from the at least onecontrol device via the receiver, enabling the memory.
 17. The apparatusof claim 16, wherein the external control device is a hand-heldcomputing device.
 18. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the transponderincludes a receiver linked to the processor for receiving data forstorage in the memory.
 19. The apparatus of claim 1, further includingat least one sensing transducer linked to the processor for collectingdata for storage in the memory, wherein the collected data relates to atleast one of the object and the object's environment.
 20. The apparatusof claim 19, wherein the processor assembly includes a transponderhaving a transmitter for transmitting the collected data and the basicidentification information from the memory, the collected data beingtransferred only in association with the basic identificationinformation.
 21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the collectible datatypes include pulse rate, temperature, pressure, pulse oximetry andcardio-diagnostic measurements, and the transducer collects data of atleast one of the collectible data types.
 22. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the transponder includes a transmitter for transmitting at leasta sub-set of the data stored in the memory.
 23. The apparatus of claim22, wherein the at least one security function includes disabling thetransmitter.
 24. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the apparatus isalso for use with external devices, the transponder further including areceiver linked to the processor for receiving data from at least oneexternal device, the processor storing in the memory at least a subsetof data received from an external device.
 25. The apparatus of claim 24wherein basic object identification information identifying the objectstored in the memory and the received data is stored in association withthe basic identification information.
 26. The apparatus of claim 24,wherein the at least one function includes disabling one of thetransmitter and the receiver.
 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein, ifthe security function is to disable the transmitter, the securityfunction further includes, after disabling the transmitter, when anaccess code is received from at least one external device via thereceiver, enabling the transmitter.
 28. The apparatus of claim 27,wherein the processor assembly also includes an enabling componentlinked to the processor and, if the security function is to disable thereceiver, when the receiver is disabled the function further includesmonitoring the enabling component for an access code and when a code isreceived, re-enabling the receiver.
 29. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the processor assembly is contained in a housing having a firstlatch device, the base member includes a second latch device, and thefirst and second latch devices are configured such that the processorassembly can be connected and disconnected to the base member.
 30. Theapparatus of claim 29, wherein the sensor also senses when the processorassembly is disconnected from the base member.
 31. The apparatus ofclaim 30, wherein the sensor is a first sensor and the base memberfurther includes a second sensor for sensing then the base member isdisconnected from the object, when the processor assembly is connectedto the base member, the second sensor is linked to the processor suchthat the processor also monitors connecting and disconnecting of thebase member to the object, the processor performing at least onesecurity function when the base member is disconnected from the objectand the processor is connected to the base member.
 32. The apparatus ofclaim 31, wherein the at least one security function is one of disablingthe memory and clearing the memory.
 33. The apparatus of claim 31,wherein the processor assembly further includes an alarm linked to theprocessor, wherein the at least one security function includesactivating the alarm.
 34. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein theprocessor assembly further includes a clock, wherein the at least onesecurity function includes recording in the memory the time theprocessor assembly was disconnected from the object.
 35. The apparatusof claim 31, wherein the processor assembly further includes atransmitter and the at least one security function includes disablingthe transmitter.
 36. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least onesecurity function includes retaining the contents of the memory untilthe processor assembly is attached to one of another object and anotherbase member at which point the memory is cleared.
 37. The apparatus ofclaim 31, wherein the base member is a strap.
 38. The apparatus of claim37, wherein the second sensor includes at least one conductive memberwithin the strap which forms at least a portion of a conductive loopabout the object when attached to the object.
 39. The apparatus of claim38, wherein the strap includes first and second end segments and iscapable of assuming a second configuration wherein the first and secondend segments are adjacent and the strap forms a loop around the object,the conductive lead extending from the first to the second end segments,the processor assembly further including first and second conductiveleads, the first end segment being coupled to the first conductive leadand the second end segment being coupled to the second conductive leadto form a loop.
 40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the second endsegment is connectable to the second conductive lead via an adhesive.41. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connector is an adhesive. 42.The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the at least one security function isone of disabling the memory and clearing the memory.
 43. The apparatusof claim 41, wherein the processor assembly further includes an alarmlinked to the processor, wherein the at least one security functionincludes activating the alarm.
 44. The apparatus of claim 41, whereinthe processor assembly further includes a clock, wherein the at leastone security function includes recording in the memory the time theprocessor assembly was disconnected from the object.
 45. The apparatusof claim 41, wherein the processor assembly further includes atransmitter, wherein the at least one security function includesdisabling the transmitter.
 46. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the atleast one security function includes retaining the contents of thememory until the processor assembly is attached to one of another objectand another base member at which point the memory is cleared.
 47. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a pressure sensor includingat least one resilient extension member capable of assuming a relaxedposition and a flexed position, the sensor indicating detachment whenthe extension member is in the relaxed position, and wherein the basemember and processor assembly further include first and second latchdevices which cooperate to releasably attach the processor assembly tothe base member, at least on of the object and a latch device forming apressure surface, the latch devices, extension member and pressuresurface configured such that when the processor assembly is attached tothe base member the extension member is forced into the flexed positionby the pressure surface.
 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein thepressure surface is formed by the object.
 49. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the transponder is capable of communication via radio frequencysignals.
 50. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor assemblyfurther comprises a clock linked to the processor.
 51. The apparatus ofclaim 49, wherein the at least one security function includes recordingthe approximate time processor was disconnected from the object.
 52. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the object includes a container vessel anda closure member, the vessel having an opening which is closable via theclosure member when the closure member is in a closed position, theapparatus further including a latching device attached to one of thebase member, the vessel, the closure member and the processor assembly,the latching device capable of assuming each of a locked and an unlockedstate, when the closure member is in the closed position and theprocessor assembly is attached to the base member, the processorassembly is linked to the latching device for controlling the latchingdevice, the latching device is juxtaposed with respect to the closuremember, the vessel and the base member such that when the latchingdevice is in the locked state, the closure member is locked in theclosed position and, when the latching device is in the unlocked state,the closure member can be removed to open the vessel.
 53. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the at least one security function includesretaining the contents of the memory until the processor assembly isattached to one of another object and another base member, at whichpoint the memory is cleared.
 54. An electronic identification apparatusfor identifying an object, the apparatus comprising: a base memberhaving a connector for connecting the base member to the object; aprocessor assembly attached to the base member and including: a memoryfor storing data; a transponder; a sensor for sensing when the processorassembly is connected to the object; and a processor linked to thememory, the transponder and the sensor, the sensor indicating to theprocessor whether or not the processor assembly is connected to theobject, the processor performing at least one security function when theprocessor assembly is disconnected from the object; wherein the at leastone security function includes at least one of clearing the memory,disabling the memory and disabling the transponder.
 55. The apparatus ofclaim 54, wherein the base member is a strap having first and second endsegments and is capable of assuming a second configuration wherein thefirst and second end segments are adjacent and the strap forms a looparound the object, a conductive lead extends from the first to thesecond end segments, the processor assembly further including first andsecond conductive leads, the first end segment being coupled to thefirst conductive lead and the second end segment being coupled to thesecond conductive lead to form a loop.
 56. The apparatus of claim 55,further comprising a plurality of transponders spaced along the loop andlinked to the processor assembly.
 57. The apparatus of claim 55, furthercomprising a plurality of indicators spaced along the loop and linked tothe processor assembly.
 58. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein thesensor is selected from a group consisting of a pressure sensor, aphotoelectric sensor and a magnetic sensor.
 59. The apparatus of claim54, wherein the sensor comprises at least one electrical terminal of theprocessor assembly positioned to contact at least one correspondingelectrical terminal of the base member when the processor assembly isattached to the base member.
 60. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein theprocessor assembly further includes one of an audible alarm, an rf alarmand a visual alarm linked to the processor.
 61. The apparatus of claim60, wherein the at least one security function further includesactivating an alarm when said processor assembly is removed from theobject.
 62. The apparatus of claim 61, wherein the processor inhibitsthe alarm when a disable signal is received.
 63. The apparatus of claim62, wherein the transponder includes a receiver and the apparatus is tobe used with an external control device, the control device providingthe disable signal to the processor via the receiver.
 64. The apparatusof claim 54, wherein the processor assembly further includes a displaylinked to the processor for visually presenting at least a subset of thememory contents.
 65. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein the at least onesecurity function includes suppressing the display of the memorycontents.
 66. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the transponderincludes a receiver for receiving control signals from at least oneexternal control device, and wherein, if the at least one securityfunction is to disable the memory, the security function furtherincludes, after disabling the memory, when an access code is receivedfrom the at least one control device via the receiver, enabling thememory.
 67. The apparatus of claim 66, wherein the external controldevice is a hand-held computing device.
 68. The apparatus of claim 54,wherein the transponder includes a receiver linked to the processor forreceiving data for storage in the memory.
 69. The apparatus of claim 54,further including at least one sensing transducer linked to theprocessor for collecting data for storage in the memory, wherein thecollected data relates to at least one of the object and the object'senvironment.
 70. The apparatus of claim 69, wherein the transponderincludes a transmitter for transmitting at least a sub-set of the datastored in the memory.
 71. The apparatus of claim 69, wherein the objectis a patient, the collectible data types include pulse rate,temperature, pressure, pulse oximetry and cardio-diagnosticmeasurements, and the transducer collects data of at least one of thecollectible data types.
 72. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein at leastbasic identification information identifying the patient is stored inthe memory and the transponder includes a transmitter for transmittingat least the basic identification information from the memory.
 73. Theapparatus of claim 72, wherein the apparatus is also for use withexternal devices, the transponder further including a receiver linked tothe processor for receiving data from at least one external device, theprocessor storing in the memory at least a subset of data received froman external device.
 74. The apparatus of claim 73, wherein the receiveddata is stored in association with the basic identification information.75. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein, the processor assembly includesan enabling component and, if the security function is to disable thetransponder, the at least one security function further includes, afterdisabling the transponder, when an access code is received from at leastone external device via the enabling component, enabling thetransponder.
 76. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the processorassembly is contained in a housing having a first latch device, the basemember includes a second latch device, and the first and second latchdevices are configured such that the processor assembly can be connectedand disconnected to the base member.
 77. The apparatus of claim 76,wherein the sensor senses when the processor assembly is disconnectedfrom the base member.
 78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the sensoris a first sensor and the base member further includes a second sensorfor sensing then the base member is disconnected from the object, whenthe processor assembly is connected to the base member, the secondsensor is linked to the processor such that the processor also monitorsconnecting and disconnecting of the base member to the object, theprocessor performing at least one security function when the base memberis disconnected from the object and the processor is connected to thebase member.
 79. The apparatus of claim 78, wherein the processorassembly further includes an alarm linked to the processor, wherein theat least one security function includes activating the alarm.
 80. Theapparatus of claim 78, wherein the processor assembly further includes aclock, wherein the at least one security function includes recording inthe memory the time the processor assembly was disconnected from theobject.
 81. The apparatus of claim 78, wherein the at least one securityfunction includes retaining the contents of the memory until theprocessor assembly is attached to one of another object and another basemember at which point the memory is cleared.
 82. The apparatus of claim78, wherein the base member is a strap.
 83. The apparatus of claim 82,wherein the second sensor includes at least one conductive member withinthe strap which forms at least a portion of a conductive loop about theobject when attached to the object.
 84. The apparatus of claim 83,wherein the strap is detachable from the object only via cutting theconductive member.
 85. The apparatus of claim 84, wherein the strapincludes first and second end segments and is capable of assuming asecond configuration wherein the first and second end segments areadjacent and the strap forms a loop around the object, the conductivelead extending from the first to the second end segments, the processorassembly further including first and second conductive leads, the firstend segment being coupled to the first conductive lead and the secondend segment being coupled to the second conductive lead to form a loop.86. The apparatus of claim 84, wherein the second end segment isconnectable to the second conductive lead via an adhesive.
 87. Theapparatus of claim 54, wherein the connector is an adhesive.
 88. Theapparatus of claim 87, wherein the processor assembly further includesan alarm linked to the processor, wherein the at least one securityfunction includes activating the alarm.
 89. The apparatus of claim 87,wherein the processor assembly further includes a clock, wherein the atleast one security function includes recording in the memory the timethe processor assembly was disconnected from the object.
 90. Theapparatus of claim 87, wherein the at least one security functionincludes retaining the contents of the memory until the processorassembly is attached to one of another object and another base member atwhich point the memory is cleared.
 91. The apparatus of claim 58,wherein the sensor is a pressure sensor including at least one resilientextension member capable of assuming a relaxed position and a flexedposition, the sensor indicating detachment when the extension member isin the relaxed position, and wherein the base member and processorassembly further include first and second latch devices which cooperateto releasably attach the processor assembly to the base member, at leaston of the object and a latch device forming a pressure surface, thelatch devices, extension member and pressure surface configured suchthat when the processor assembly is attached to the base member theextension member is forced into the flexed position by the pressuresurface.
 92. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the pressure surface isformed by the object.
 93. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein thetransponder is capable of communication via radio frequency signals. 94.The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the processor assembly is integrallylinked to the base member and the sensor senses when the base member isdisconnected from the object.
 95. The apparatus of claim 94, wherein theprocessor assembly can be removed from the object only in a tamperevident manner.
 96. The apparatus of claim 94, wherein the base memberis a strap.
 97. The apparatus of claim 96, wherein the sensor includesat least one conductive member in the strap which, when the strap issecured to the object, loops around the object and wherein the strapcannot be removed from the object without cutting the conductive member.98. The apparatus of claim 97, wherein the transponder includes atransmitter for transmitting at least a sub-set of the information inthe memory and the at least one security function includes disabling thetransmitter.
 99. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the processorassembly further comprises a clock linked to the processor.
 100. Theapparatus of claim 99, wherein the at least one security functionincludes recording the approximate time the processor assembly isdisconnected from the object.
 101. The apparatus of claim 54, whereinthe object includes a container vessel and a closure member, the vesselhaving an opening which is closable via the closure member when theclosure member is in a closed position, the apparatus further includinga latching device attached to one of the base member, the vessel, theclosure member and the processor assembly, the latching device capableof assuming each of a locked and unlocked state, when the closure memberis in the closed position and the processor assembly is attached to thebase member, the processor assembly is linked to the latching device forcontrolling the latching device, the latching device is juxtaposed withrespect to the closure member, the vessel and the base member such thatwhen the latching device is in the locked state, the closure member islocked in the closed position and, when the latching device is in theunlocked state, the closure member can be removed to open the vessel.102. The apparatus of claim 94, wherein the processor assembly can beremoved from the object only in a tamper evident manner.
 103. Anelectronic information apparatus for use with an object data device thatstored information related to an object, the apparatus comprising: (A) abase member having a connector for attaching the identificationapparatus to the object; and (B) a processor assembly including: (1) ahousing linkable to the base member; (2) a memory for storinginformation; (3) a data reader for reading information from an objectdata device; and (4) a processor linked to the memory and the reader forreceiving information from the reader and storing the information in thememory.
 104. The apparatus of claim 103, wherein the object data deviceis a data card including an interface segment, the reader capable ofreading data via the interface segment.
 105. The apparatus of claim 104,wherein the object is a person and the object data device information isselected from the group consisting of name, age, birth date, height,weight, hair color, eye color, and identification number.
 106. Theapparatus of claim 104, wherein the interface segment is a firstelectronic contact and the reader includes a second electronic contactand wherein, when the first and second contacts make contact, the readeris capable of reading the data.
 107. The apparatus of claim 104, whereinthe interface segment is a magnetic strip and the reader is a magneticstrip reader.
 108. The apparatus of claim 104, wherein the housing forma pass-through slot for receiving at least a portion of the card, thereader positioned within the slot such that, as the card is placedtherein, the reader is adjacent the interface segment.
 109. Theapparatus of claim 103, wherein the base member is a strap having firstand second end segments and capable of assuming a secured configurationwherein the first and second end segments are adjacent and the strapforms a loop around the object.
 110. The apparatus of claim 103, whereinonce information pertaining to the object is read from the data device,the processor disables the reader until the processor receives a specialcode.
 111. The apparatus of claim 110, wherein the processor assemblyfurther includes a receiver and is also for use with at least oneexternal control device, wherein the special code is received by theprocessor via the receiver from the control device.
 112. The apparatusof claim 103, wherein the processor assembly further includes atransmitter linked to the processor for transmitting data stored in thememory.
 113. The apparatus of claim 112, wherein data stored in thememory includes basic identification information identifying the objectand the transmitted data includes the basic identification information.114. The apparatus of claim 112, wherein the processor assembly isremovably secured to the base member.
 115. The apparatus of claim 1 14,wherein the processor assembly further includes a sensor for sensingwhen the processor assembly is removed from the object and wherein, whenthe assembly is removed, the processor performs at least on securityfunction.
 116. The apparatus of claim 115, wherein the at least onesecurity function is one of disabling the memory and clearing thememory.
 117. The apparatus of claim 115, wherein the processor assemblyfurther includes an alarm linked to the processor, wherein the at leastone security function includes activating the alarm.
 118. The apparatusof claim 31, wherein the processor assembly further includes a clock,wherein the at least one security function includes recording in thememory the time the processor assembly was disconnected from the object.119. The apparatus of claim 115, wherein the processor assembly furtherincludes a transponder, wherein the at least on security functionincludes disabling the transponder.
 120. The apparatus of claim 115,wherein the at least one security function includes retaining thecontents of the memory until the processor assembly is attached to oneof another object and another base member at which point the memory iscleared.
 121. The apparatus of claim 115, wherein the processor assemblyfurther includes a sensing transducer linked to the processor forcollecting data regarding the object for storage in the memory.
 122. Theapparatus of claim 121, wherein the transmitter can be used to transmitthe collected data and the basic identification information in thememory, the collected data being transferred only in association withthe basic identification information.
 123. The apparatus of claim 103,wherein the processor assembly further includes a receiver for receivingdata from other devices for storage in the memory.
 124. The apparatus ofclaim 103, wherein the processor assembly further comprises a clocklinked to the processor.
 125. The apparatus of claim 124, wherein the atleast one security function includes recording the approximate time theprocessor was disconnected from the object.
 126. The apparatus of claim103, wherein the object includes a container vessel and a closuremember, the vessel having an opening which is closable via the closuremember when the closure member is in a closed position, the apparatusfurther including a latching device attached to one of the base member,the vessel, the closure member and the processor assembly, the latchingdevice capable of assuming each of a locked and unlocked state, when theclosure member is in the closed position and the processor assembly isattached to the base member, the processor assembly is linked to thelatching device for controlling the latching device, the latching deviceis juxtaposed with respect to the closure member, the vessel and thebase member such that when the latching device is in the locked state,the closure member is locked in the closed position and, when thelatching device is in the unlocked state, the closure member can beremoved to open the vessel.
 127. The apparatus of claim 103, wherein theprocessor assembly can be removed from the object only in a tamperevident manner.
 128. The apparatus of claim 103, wherein the base memberis a strap having first and second end segments and is capable ofassuming a configuration wherein the first and second end segments areadjacent and the strap forms a loop around the object, the conductivemember extending from the first to the second end segments, theprocessor assembly further including first and second conductive leads,the first end segment being coupled to the first conductive lead and thesecond end segment being coupled to the second conductive lead to form aloop.
 129. The apparatus of claim 128, further comprising a plurality oftransponders spaced along the loop and linked to the processor assembly.130. The apparatus of claim 128, further comprising a plurality ofindicators spaced along the loop and linked to the processor assembly.131. A contents identifying containment apparatus comprising: (A) avessel forming a container volume having an opening (B) a closure memberfor closing the opening; (C) a base member affixed to one of the vesseland the closure member having at least one latching device extending;(D) a memory for storing information (E) a processor assembly having:(1) a housing including a second latching device configured so as toreceivable by the first latching device to secure the processor assemblyto the base member; and (2) a processor linked to the memory forprocessing container control information, the processor assembly,vessel, closure member and base member each being apparatus components;and (F) a latch linked to one of the apparatus components and when thehousing is attached to the base member, positioned with respect to thevessel so as to restrain the closure member when in a lock position andto allow the closure member to be moved when in an unlock position;wherein, when the housing is attached to the base member, the processoris linked to the latch for controlling the latch.
 132. The apparatus ofclaim 131, wherein the memory is integral with the base member.
 133. Theapparatus of claim 131, wherein the memory is a part of the processorassembly.
 134. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the processorassembly further includes an input device for receiving informationrelated to the container vessel contents.
 135. The apparatus of claim131, wherein the latch is a solenoid.
 136. The apparatus of claim 135,wherein the closure member is one of a hinged lid, a threaded lid and afit-on lid, the solenoid being positioned so as to restrain the closuremember when in the locked position.
 137. The apparatus of claim 134,wherein the processing assembly is removably attached to the base memberand wherein the base member and the housing have correspondingconductive terminals that are in physical contact when the processingassembly is attached to the base member, the housing terminals beinglinked to the processor.
 138. The apparatus of claim 134, wherein theinput device is an input-output connector for receiving and sending thecontainer content information via conductive lead.
 139. The apparatus ofclaim 138, wherein the container content information is sent only inassociation with the basic identification information.
 140. Theapparatus of claim 134, wherein the input device is a transponder forreceiving and transmitting container content information wirelessly.141. The apparatus of claim 131, wherein the processor assembly furtherincludes a sensor linked to the processor for detecting whether theprocessor assembly is connected to the container vessel, the processorperforming at least one security function when the processing assemblyis removed from the container.
 142. The apparatus of claim 141, whereinthe at least one security function is on of disabling the memory andclearing the memory.
 143. The apparatus of claim 141, wherein theprocessor assembly further includes an alarm linked to the processor,wherein the at least one security function includes activating thealarm.
 144. The apparatus of claim 141, wherein the processor assemblyfurther includes a clock, wherein the at least one security functionincludes recording in the memory the time the processor assembly wasdisconnected from the container vessel.
 145. The apparatus of claim 141,wherein the processor assembly further includes a transponder, whereinthe at least one security function includes disabling the transponder.146. The apparatus of claim 141, wherein the at least one securityfunction includes retaining the contents of the memory until theprocessor assembly is attached to one of another container vessel andanother base member, at which point the memory is cleared.
 147. Theapparatus of claim 131, wherein the latch is operated according tocontainer control information stored in the memory.
 148. The apparatusof claim 131, wherein the latch is operated according to containercontrol information received from an external control device.
 149. Theapparatus of claim 131, wherein the processor assembly further comprisesa clock linked to the processor.
 150. The apparatus of claim 131,wherein the processor assembly can be removed from the container vesselonly in a tamper evident manner.
 151. An electronic identificationapparatus for identifying an object, comprising: a base member having aconnector for attaching the base member to the object; at least onesensing transducer linkable to an external device containing data and,when an external device is linked, collecting data from the externaldevice; and a memory attached to the base member and linked to thesensing transducer, the memory storing the data collected from theexternal device.
 152. The apparatus of claim 151, wherein the basemember is a strap having first and second end segments and capable ofassuming a secured configuration wherein the first and second endsegments are adjacent and the strap forms a loop around the object. 153.The apparatus of claim 152, wherein the apparatus includes a sensor fordetecting whether the base member is connected to the object, theapparatus performing at least one security function when the base memberis disconnected from the object.
 154. The apparatus of claim 153,wherein the at least one security function is one of disabling thememory and clearing the memory.
 155. The apparatus of claim 153, whereinthe processor assembly further includes an alarm linked to theprocessor, wherein the at least one security function includesactivating the alarm.
 156. The apparatus of claim 153, wherein theprocessor assembly further includes a clock, wherein the at least onesecurity function includes recording in the memory the time theprocessor assembly was disconnected from the object.
 157. The apparatusof claim 153, wherein the processor assembly further includes atransponder, wherein the at least one security function includesdisabling the transponder.
 158. The apparatus of claim 153, wherein theat least one security function includes retaining the contents of thememory until the processor assembly is attached to one of another objectand another base member, at which point the memory is cleared.
 159. Theapparatus of claim 153, wherein the processor assembly further comprisesa clock.
 160. The apparatus of claim 159, wherein the at least onesecurity function includes recording the approximate time the basemember was disconnected from the object.
 161. The apparatus of claim160, wherein the base member can be removed from the object only in atamper evident manner.
 162. A method of using an electronicidentification device for identifying an object, the device having abase member connected to the object, a processor assembly connected tothe base member such that the processor assembly can be removed from andreconnected to the object, the processor assembly including a memory, asensor for sensing when the processor assembly is connected to theobject, and a processor linked to the memory and the sensor, the methodcomprising the steps of: (A) monitoring, with the sensor, whether theprocessor assembly is connected to the base member; and (B) when thesensor indicates the processor assembly is disconnected from the basemember, performing at least one security function.
 163. A method ofusing an electronic identification device attached to an object andcapable of acquiring object related information from an object datadevice having readable segment, the electronic identification devicehaving a processor assembly including a processor, a connection sensor,a memory and a data reader for reading information from the object datadevice, the processor being linked to the sensor, the memory, the methodcomprising the steps of: (A) reading information from the object datadevice with the reader of the processor assembly, the information atleast including basic identification information; (B) storing at leastthe basic identification information in the memory; (C) monitoring, withthe sensor, whether the processor assembly is connected to the object;and (D) when the sensor indicates the processor assembly is disconnectedfrom the object, performing at least one security function.
 164. Themethod of using a contents identifying containment apparatus comprisinga closable container vessel to which is affixed a memory and a processorlinked to the memory, the container vessel also having a latch linkableto the processor and positioned so as to control opening and closing ofthe container vessel, the method comprising the steps of: (A) storing inthe memory basic identification information pertaining to the contentsof the container vessel; (B) receiving container control information;and (C) when the container is closed, operating the latch to extend to alocked position so as to prevent the container from being opened and toretract to an unlocked position to allow the container to be opened, thelatch being under the control of the processor assembly and operatedaccording to the container control information.
 165. The method of claim164, further comprising the steps of: (D) monitoring, with the sensor,whether the processor assembly is connected to the container vessel; and(E) when the sensor indicates the processor assembly is disconnectedfrom the container vessel, performing at least one security function.